A Question

The hawk alone wheels 'gainst the tear-grey sky,

While lesser birds hide safe in lower nests.

The prey-bird wings so proud, so free, so high,

While others cower beneath the perils and tests.

The wolf roams far for fleetly racing doe,

While dogs cringe 'round their lord and master's feet.

The woods are cold with freshly fallen snow,

But dogs are warm beside the fire-seat.

The traveller ranges farther than the wind,

But dangers are on heath and height and hill.

The baker's life is sweeter and more kind,

But he must see the world from windowsill.

Should life be fraught with wonder and with fright?

Or should we take our safety, give our sight?