Valentine
This is the time for birds to mate;To-day the doveWill mark the ancient amorous dateWith moans of love;The crow will change his call to prateHis hopes thereof.
The starling will display the redThat lights his wings;The wren will know the sweet things saidBy him who swingsAnd ducks and dips his crested headAnd sings and sings.
They are obedient to their blood,Nor ask a sign,Save buoyant air and swelling bud,At hands divine,But choose, each in the barren wood,His valentine.
In caution’s maze they never waitUntil they die;They flock the season’s open gateEre time steals by.Love, shall we see and imitate,You, love, and I?