The Katydids

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Sometimes I keep
  From going to sleep,
  To hear the katydids "cheep-cheep!"
  And think they say
  Their prayers that way;
  But _katydids_ don't have to _pray_!

  I listen when
  They cheep again
  And so, I think, they're _singing_ then!
  But, no; I'm wrong,--
  The sound's too long
  And all-alike to be a song!

  I think, "Well, there!
  I do declare,
  If it is neither song nor prayer,
  It's _talk_--and quite
  Too vain and light
  For me to listen to all night!"

  And so, I smile,
  And think,--"Now I'll
  Not listen for a little while!"--
  Then, sweet and clear,
  Next "_cheep_" I hear
  'S a _kiss_.... Good morning, Mommy dear!

© James Whitcomb Riley