By a Gently Flowing Creek -

By a gently flowing creek – I saw a swallowtail flutter About my head, as though meek – And land softer than a feather. He was large enough, I swear – To sit in all of my hand. He did not mind that I was there Or that I was entranced. Soon, a second butterfly Distracted him by swooping down – His mate, I surmised. How fiercely they swirled around! Then breaking up, they moored To sup water from the red rock Like two tasters of one accord Complimenting the good stock. They were loving my attention – At least it seemed so. Raising their wings in the sun Made a flash of black on yellow. Then came a convenient wind; The two undocked at bay And taking quick advantage – They sailed playfully away.