John Martin

If I Were Little as a Bee

If I were little as a bee,

I'd let him fly away with me—

If he were willing.

I'd sit right on his back, and I

Would say "Get up," and off we'd fly;

It would be thrilling!


I'd steer him up above the trees,

And race with every little breeze,

And beat them quickly.

I'd dip, and toss, and rise, and fall

Where vines, and flowers, near the wall,

Grow tall and thickly.


I'd chase the thoughtless butterfly

As he drank dew; then hurry by

As lightning passes.

And, when I thought it right and best,

I'd give my bumblebee a rest

On rocking grasses.