THE TRUANT DOVE.
61
"Oh! hear me then; if thus we have been blest,
"If on these wings it was your joy to rest,
"Love must from habit still new strength be gaining—"
"From habit? 'tis of that, child, I'm complaining:
"This everlasting fondness will not be
"For birds of flesh and blood. We sha'nt agree,
"So why dispute? now prithee don't torment me;
"I shall not long be gone; let that content ye:
"Pshaw! what a fuss! Come, no more sighs and groans,
"Keep up your spirits; mind your little ones;
"My journey won't be far—my honour's pledged—
"I shall be back again before they're fledged;
"Give me a kiss; and now my dear, adieu!"
So light of heart and plumes, away he flew;
And, as above the sheltering rock he springs,
She listen'd to the echo of his wings;
