"To a Redbreast--(In Sickness)" by William Wordsworth

Leucistic Robin in my backyard

    

TO A REDBREAST-- (IN SICKNESS) 

by William Wordsworth

          STAY, little cheerful Robin! stay,

            And at my casement sing,

          Though it should prove a farewell lay

            And this our parting spring.

          Though I, alas! may ne'er enjoy

            The promise in thy song;

          A charm, 'that' thought can not destroy,

            Doth to thy strain belong.

          Methinks that in my dying hour

            Thy song would still be dear,                             10

          And with a more than earthly power

            My passing Spirit cheer.

          Then, little Bird, this boon confer,

            Come, and my requiem sing,

          Nor fail to be the harbinger

            Of everlasting Spring.

                                                              1842.