SONG OF THE BIRD.

ON the topmost branch of the highest tree I sit and sing, I am free! I am free! When the lightnings flash, when the thunders roar, I plume my wings and away I soar! But soon on the branch of a lofty tree Gayly I sing, I am free! I am free! A huntsman he came by my nest one day, And thought that with gun my song he would stay; But I left my nest when he thought me there, And I roamed about in my native air. Then, when he was gone, on the highest tree Gayly I sung, I am free! I am free! It is I, 't is I, that at dawn of day Go to meet the sun at its earliest ray. I love its heat; so I cheer it along With chirping notes and melodious song; And all the day on the highest tree Gayly I sing, I am free! I am free! When the dusky shades of the night appear, In my nest on high I have naught to fear; Sweetly I slumber till dawning of day, Then to the East, for the sun, I'm away, Till, borne on its rays to the highest tree, Gayly I sing, I am free! I am free! O, I love my nest, and my nest loves me! It rocks like a bark on the dancing sea; Gently it bows when I wish to retire; When in, it rises higher and higher. O, I love my nest, and I love the tree, Home and the haunt of the bird that is free!