How lovely looks the cardinal
But have you ever heard him sing?
So many comments spent in praising
His bright and jewel-toned wing.
How lovely looks the cardinal
As he toils at his nest:
Winter wakes to spring and sings
With light notes from his breast.
How lovely looks the cardinal
Flashing red from tree to tree:
Alerting to his lady-love
News of threats he sees.
How lovely looks the cardinal
Surviving winter snows:
Trilling sharp and chirping soft
Brightly his song glows.
How lovely looks the cardinal
But have you ever heard him sing?
So many comments spend in praising
His lovely jewel-toned wing.