ArchivedLove
Poems

I heard a linnet courting
...His lady in the spring:
His mates were idly sporting,
...Nor stayed to hear him sing
......His song of love.--
I fear my speech distorting
......His tender love.

The phrases of his pleading
...Were full of young delight;
And she that gave him heeding
...Interpreted aright
......His gay, sweet notes,--
So sadly marred in the reading,---
......His tender notes.

And when he ceased, the hearer
...Awaited the refrain,
Till swiftly perching nearer
...He sang his song again,
......His pretty song:--
Would that my verse spake clearer
......His tender song!

Ye happy, airy creatures!
...That in the merry spring
Think not of what misfeatures
...Or cares the year may bring;
......But unto love
Resign your simple natures,
......To tender love.

.....The Linnet by Robert Bridges (1844-1930)