THE SKYLARK
Reading edition
Of all the birds the fairies love the skylark much the best;
They come with little fairy gifts to seek his hidden nest.
They praise his tiny slender feet and silken suit of brown,
And with their gentle hands they smooth his feathers softly down.
They cluster round with glowing cheeks and bright expectant eyes,
Waiting the moment that shall bring the freedom of the skies;
Waiting the double-sweet delight that only he can give—
(Oh, kings might surely spurn their crowns to live as fairies live).
27To ride upon a skylark’s back between his happy wings,
To float upon the edge of heaven and listen while he sings—
The dreams of mortals scarce can touch so perfected a bliss,
And even fairies could not know a greater joy than this.
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