The First Cuckoo

TO-DAY I heard the cuckoo call, Atop of Bredon Hill, I heard him near the blackthorn bush, And Oh! my heart stood still!

For it was just a year ago, That to my love I said, “When next we hear the cuckoo call, Then you and I will wed.”

My love and I we still be two, And will be, many Springs; I think the saddest sound on earth Is when the cuckoo sings.