It was evidently a wedding ; and I was just in time to see it , for the procession was passing at that moment . First came a splendid cock-a-doodle , all in black and gold , like a herald , blowing his trumpet , and marching with a very dignified step . Then came a rook , in black , like a minister , with spectacles and white cravat . A lark and bullfinch followed , -- friends , I suppose ; and then the bride and bridegroom . Miss Wren was evidently a Quakeress ; for she wore a sober dress , and a little white veil , through which her bright eyes shone . The bridegroom was a military man , in his scarlet uniform , -- a plump , bold-looking bird , very happy and proud just then . A goldfinch gave away the bride , and a linnet was bridesmaid . The ceremony was very fine ; and , as soon as it was over , the blackbird , thrush and nightingale burst out in a lovely song . A splendid dinner followed , at which was nearly every bird that flies ; so you may imagine the music there was . They had currant-pie in abundance ; and cherry-wine , which excited a cuckoo so much , that he became quite rude , and so far forgot himself as to pull the bride about . This made the groom so angry that he begged his friend , the sparrow , to bring his bow and arrow , and punish the ruffian . But , alas ! Sparrow had also taken a drop too much : he aimed wrong , and , with a dreadful cry , Mr. Robin sank dying into the arms of his wife , little Jane . It was too much for me ; and , taking advantage of the confusion that followed , I left the tragical scene as fast as possible . A little farther on , I was shocked to see a goose dragging an old man down some steps that led to a little house . `` Dear me ! what 's the matter here ? '' I cried . `` He wo n't say his prayers , '' screamed the goose . `` But perhaps he was never taught , '' said I. `` It 's never too late to learn : he 's had his chance ; he wo n't be pious and good , so away with him .
Do n't interfere , whatever you do : hold your tongue , and go about your business , '' scolded the XXXXX , who certainly had a dreadful temper .
advantage bullfinch ceremony chance goose matter minister steps trumpet wife