The nest yon winged artist builds,
The robber-bird shall tear away;
So yields her hopes th'affianced maid,
Some wealthy lord's reluctant prey.

The anxious bird prepares a home,
In which the spoiler soon shall dwell;
Forth goes the weeping bride, constrain'd,
A hundred cars the triumph swell.

Mourn for the tiny architect,
A stronger bird hath ta'en its nest;
Mourn for the hapless, stolen bride,
How vain the pomp to soothe her breast!