Far down beneath the nest the forest sighs,

Swaying its branches, as it too would say,

"I will protect thee from the driving rain,

My leaves shall cover thee, so have no dread"

I also in my ruined strength would pray,

"God grant thee rest, and shelter thee from fear"

If I should live the seasons round again

And God vouchsafe me one more summer's day

Of utter peace, perchance thy voice I'll hear

Trilling in confidence from some cool glade—