Now wantoned, lost in flowery reeds,
Now, starting into sight,
Pursued the swallow o'er the meads,
With scarce a slower flight.
It was the time when Ouse displayed
His lilies newly blown.
Their beauties I intent surveyed,
And one I wished my own.
With cane extended far, I sought
To steer it close to land;
But still the prize, though nearly caught,
Escaped my eager hand.
Beau marked my unsuccessful pains,
With fixed, considerate face;
And, puzzling, set his puppy brains
To comprehend the case.
But, with a chirrup clear and strong
Dispersing all his dream,
I thence withdrew, and followed long
The windings of the stream.
My ramble finished, I returned;
Beau, trotting far before,
The floating wreath again discerned,
And, plunging, left the shore.
I saw him with that lily cropped
Impatient swim to meet
My quick approach; and soon he dropped
The treasure at my feet.
Charmed with the sight, "The world," I cried,
"Shall hear of this thy deed.
My dog shall mortify the pride
Of man's superior breed."
But, chief, myself I will enjoin,
Awake at duty's call,
To show a love as prompt as thine
To Him who gives me all.
"I think that's a right pretty story, Mother," said Frank, when his mother had finished reciting it; "but will you tell me what 'high in pedigree' means; for I'm sure I don't know. I never heard the word before; and who are nymphs, who found the spaniel for Cowper?"