Spencer Heath Archive

Item 2080

Typed poem, not known whether it was by Heath in his young years or by someone else, but it appears to have been preserved for many years.

 

 

THE GUARDIANS

 

Around the farm and house

   Three faithful guards remain,

In quiet sleepy watchfulness

   O’er meadow-path and lane.

 

First comes the frank and playful “Brown”

   With wagging tail and grinning face,

So glad of every kind caress,

   So anxious for the forward place.

 

And then comes “Coxey” slow and grave

   With canine dignity and pride;

Alive to every kindness paid,

   But still reserved and dignified.

 

But last and gayest of them all,

   Comes little “Sport” so glad and free:

With sparkling eyes he stands erect,

   Or rolls upon his back in glee.

 

What simple faith these friends of man

   Have in his mercy and his care,

Whose simple nature, open ways,

   Well might he fuller strive to share.