The other, beside a lone geranium,

Peeps between wires of rusty age.

The one consumes a dainty seedling

That, leagues on leagues, in vessels comes;

The other pecks at the scanty leavings,

Strained from his mistress’ painful crumbs.

The lady’s bird has careful lackeys,

To leave him in the cheerful sun;

Upon her bird the seamstress glances,

Between each stitch, till work is done.