A Spring Idyl.

On the branches of the trees

In the summer morning breeze,

Many merry, happy birds

Sing their songs to flocks and herds.

Little, laughing, rippling rills

Gaily flow down green-clad hills.

In open fields, in forest nooks,

On the mossy banks of brooks,

Shedding rare and sweet perfume,

Dewy, bright-hued flowers bloom.

O’er the waving, glistening grass

Come a loving lad and lass.

Strolling so leisurely, languidly, dreamily,

Plucking a flower now here and now there;

Chatting so merrily, happily, cheerily.

Blessings be many on that loving pair.

Notice how carefully, lovingly, tenderly,

O’er the rough way he is guiding her feet.

See how she eagerly, joyfully, gratefully

Drinks in the strains of his voice low and sweet.

What is he saying?

Timid, delaying,

Wishing, yet fearing, his love to impart.

Why is he waiting,

Shy, hesitating?

Surely that maid knows the love in his heart.

Why does he blush so?

Why does she flush so?

Ah, he has told her! What joy lights her face!

Kissing, caressing,

Sweet love expressing,

Thrilling with bliss in each other’s embrace.

Louder and livelier, merrier, sprightlier,

Warble your benison, beautiful birds,

While Nature smilingly, heartily, cordially

Blesses with silence more welcome than words.

Screened by the wide-spreading, friendly old maple tree,

Bathed in the glorious sunshine they stand.

Together, then, leave them in sacred communion—

Holy affections deep reverence command.

Transcriber’s Notes

Itemized changes from the original text: