One day a sparrow came, alighted on my balcony railing

I, behind stirring curtains, saw her settle down, was glad

That of all the houses standing together, she chose mine.

To rest awhile, and with darting eyes take a second wind.

She saw me, and I knew she would take wing if I blinked

Yet I could not help, but she stayed perhaps a little tired

Of looking for minute worms or seeds in the dusty grass

I slow turned, and no sooner my curtains joined, hurried

With soundless steps to the kitchen, from the bread box

Grasped crumbs as much could hold, and tip-toed back

But she was gone, so I disconsolate, listless spread it all

On the floor, profligate in offer but little hope in receipt.

Yet she came once again, and this time her mate in tow,

I, in the ecstasy of disbelief, knelt. They perched peering

Down at such provender, exchanging looks of whether.

Now looking at me, as if my hospitality stained in doubt.

And I in dumb supplication, that I gave with full heart

Would be blessed, was no generosity my humble fare,

But a prayer that such travellers may at least partake

Of what was given, and I my own hunger too may sate.

They, after a while assured, came among the morsels

And fed with beaks that softly tapped, now swallowed

My knees ached but could not shake my mind off that

Grateful wonder, and awe that I alone had the vision.

Now all eaten, with faint rustling they rose into air

Yet glancing once my way, seeing my head bowed

Spread wings, chirped as one in some mellowness.

They were gone beyond sight, and I left oozy-eyed.

I saw them never more, but I did long after in mind

As I lay supine waiting, with one outstretched hand

With crumbs now sere in my old, so withered claws

Those glazed eyes, straining in that fast-fading light.

Flitting to my wasted palm, soft- resting gently ate.

The ancient repast now done, hopped to my breast

And whispered in my heart, they heard feebly beat

Go easy, we will ever dine off your love in your nest.