Of Things That Fly by EatMeReturns Floating along the strings of wind That are sown to make our sky, A resting cloud humming along Gave a contented sigh. "What troubles are there for me to bear, "Above the world so high?" A passing eagle soaring past Heard the cloud's happy query- A flame of anger sprang hot and fast, For his lot in life was dreary. "What fairness is there for a bird in this world, "Where even the air is more cheery?" "Who are you, sir cloud, above the ground "To speak of no reasons to be sad? "Surely the waters you pour and the thunder you sound "Are signs of time spent less than glad? "I fly up here looking high and near "For food for my young lad!" The cloud slowed his progress to a halt And his smile faltered just slightly. He spun slowly and watched the eagle's flight As he pondered why he lived so brightly. After some time he replied "I've got not a thought, "As to why I take things so lightly." The eagle opened his beak to respond, But his sharp eye spotted moving prey: He entered a dive with grace and speed, Leaving his companion to float on his way. The cloud lost sight of the speck as he craned his neck, And soon saw no reason to stay. Several moments passed which the cloud enjoyed, Soft breeze on his cheek and warm rays from the sun- But soon the eagle had returned triumphantly with The small mouse who's life was done. "To the house with this mouse to serve the boy and my spouse; "Sorry cloud but I've got to run!" He streaked across the bleeding sky, The sun now sinking out of sight. The cloud closed his eyes and turned away, And settled himself for the night. "No eagle am I! With a life so fast, I would not last," And soon he was bathed in moonlight. That night no storm came to the still nest, Where eagles shelter from life's frights.
