NOBLESSE OBLIGE.
Reading edition
BY MRS. M. E. SANGSTER.
Brownie, old fellow, the grain in the manger Is yours, and you've earned it. No wonder you stare, Amazed and displeased, when a pert little ranger Comes hopping in boldly your dinner to share. You beautiful creature! so rugged and steady, So swift and sure-footed, so willing and wise; Whoever may need you, so gentle and ready, I know what you're thinking; it beams from your eyes. He ruffles his feathers, this petty intruder, And arches his crest, and is gallant and gay. No conduct could possibly seem to you ruder Than his, as he leisurely stands in your way. But you? Why, you'd scorn to be put in a passion; The cause is too slight. You will patiently wait Till the satisfied rooster, in vain rooster fashion, Flies off, without thanks, to some meek little mate. The thorough-bred follows the law of his being, 'Tis only with equals he cares to contend; He bears with annoyance quite patiently, seeing That sooner or later annoyance must end.