Fable for Poets

A flea had nestled to a dove
Closely as Innocence or Love.
Loth was the dove to take offence
As Love would be, or Innocence.
When on a sudden said the flea
" I wonder what you think of me."
Timidly, as becomes the young,
The dove thus answer'd.
" You are strong
And active, and our house's friend."
"No doubt! and here my merits end?"
Cried the pert flea. A moth flew by.
" Which pleases most, that moth or I?"
The dove said, " Should not I love best,
The constant partner of my nest?"
" Come! that won't do: I wish to hear
Which is most handsome, not most dear."
Innocence in advance of Love
Prompted, and thus replied the dove.
" He may have richer colors "...
"He?
What! and do you too speak of me
Disparaging?" Off bounced the flea.