Round this pretty fountain here
Sparrows gather all the year;
In its sparkling waters dip,
From its basin freely sip,
Round about their fountain play,
Safe and happy all the day;--
Little "innocents" are they.
That is Antoine, bread in hand;
See him by his mother stand:
Saucy little birdies spy
Antoine's bread, and at it fly,
Trying each to get a share,
Frightening little Antoine there.
Antoine does not _wish_ to share,
Thinks the bread is all _his_ right,
Just to suit his appetite.
Mother says, "Be kind, my son,
There is more when this is done;
Bread enough for thee at home:--
Let the pretty sparrows come;
Give them each a little crumb."
Here our little family
Near the fountain too, we see,
Walking through the open space
To the covered market-place.
[Illustration]
[Illustration]