The pigeons flutter'd fieldward, one and all, I saw the swallows wheel, and soar, and dive; The little bees hung pois'd before the hive, Even Partlet hois'd herself across the wall: I felt my earth-bound lot in every limb, And, in my envious mood, I half-rebell'd; When lo! an insect cross'd the page I held, A little helpless minim, slight and slim; Ah! sure, there was no room for envy there, But gracious aid and condescending care; Alas! my pride and pity were misspent, The atom knew his strength, and rose in air! My gout came tingling back, as off he went, A wing was open'd at me everywhere! |