One thing the hand of Time shall spare,

For the grim Idiot at the gate

Is deathless and eternal there.

[THE SONG SPARROW]

Fair little scout, that when the iron year

Changes, and the first fleecy clouds deploy,

Comest with such a sudden burst of joy,

Lifting on winter's doomed and broken rear

That song of silvery triumph blithe and clear;

Not yet quite conscious of the happy glow,