St. Francis softly stilled their flutterings.
Sedate they sat with crested heads alert,
The near ones nestling in their brother’s skirt.
“My little birds, ye owe deep gratitude
To God, who has your forms with life imbued,
“And ever in all places should ye praise
Your Maker, who in love keeps you always,
“Since by His hand to you is freedom given
To fly where’er ye will, on earth, in heaven:
“Since from his strong and loving hand ye hold