Some, too fragile for winter winds

      The thoughtful grave encloses,—

Tenderly tucking them in from frost

Before their feet are cold.

Never the treasures in her nest

The cautious grave exposes,

Building where schoolboy dare not look

And sportsman is not bold.

This covert have all the children

Early aged, and often cold,—

Sparrows unnoticed by the Father;

Lambs for whom time had not a fold.