Summer Friends

The Swallow is a summer bird; He in our chimneys, when the weather Is fine and warm, may then be heard Chirping his notes for weeks together.

Come there but one cold wintry day, Away will fly our guest the Swallow: And much like him we find the way Which many a gay young friend will follow.

In dreary days of snow and frost Closer to Man will cling the Sparrow: Old friends, although in life we're crost, Their hearts to us will never narrow.

Give me the bird--'give me the friend-- Will sing in frost--will love in sorrow-- Whate'er mischance to-day may send, Will greet me with his sight to-morrow.