The Trees & the Woodman

The Oak & the Reeds

Giant Oak, in his strength & his scorn
Of the winds, by the roots was uptorn:
But slim Reeds at his side,
The fierce gale did outride,
Since, by bending the burden was borne.

BEND, NOT BREAK

The Fir & the Bramble

The Fir-tree looked down on the Bramble.
“Poor thing, only able to scramble
About on the ground.”
Just then an axe’ sound
Made the Fir wish himself but a Bramble.

PRIDE OF PLACE HAS ITS DISADVANTAGES

The Trees ask of Man what he lacks;
“One bit, just to handle my axe?”
All he asks—well and good:
But he cuts down the wood,
So well does he handle his axe!

“GIVE ME AN INCH & I’LL TAKE AN ELL”