An Old-Time Lay

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Where your brood seven lie,
  Float in calm heavenly,
  Life passing evenly,
Waterfowl, waterfowl! often I dream
  For a rest
  Like your nest,
  Skirting the stream.

  Shine the sun tearfully
  Ere the clouds clear fully,
  Still you skim cheerfully,
Swallow, oh! swallow swift! often I sigh
  For a home
  Where you roam
  Nearing the sky!

  Guileless of pondering;
  Swallow-eyes wandering;
  Seeking no fonder ring
Than the rose-garland Love gives thee apart!
  Grant me soon--
  Blessed boon!
  Home in thy heart!

© Victor Marie Hugo