This is a father’s gentle, wonder-filled welcome to a newborn. The speaker imagines the stork delivering a “priceless treasure” from a far‑off, magical Babyland, and you feel his quiet awe that such a tiny, perfect being has arrived. He then speaks softly to his wife, remembering her listening for the familiar cry, and the moment he found the baby nestled against her. In a lovely turn, he directly addresses the child, marveling at how calm and trusting it is — no tears, just peaceful cuddling — as if the strange new home already feels safe. The poem ends with the speaker’s own heart singing, overflowing with love and inspiration. The whole mood is hushed and intimate, full of the warmth of a small, happy home suddenly made complete. It’s a celebration not just of a birth, but of the quiet joy that transforms an ordinary night into something sacred.
The stork — Summary
Last night the Stork came stalking, And, Stork, beneath your wing Lay, lapped in dreamless slumber, The tiniest little thing! From Babyland, out yonder Beside a silver sea, You brought a priceless treasure As gift to mine and me!
Last night my dear one listened - And, wife, you knew the cry - The dear old Stork has sought our home A many times gone by! And in your gentle bosom I found the pretty thing That from the realm out yonder Our friend the Stork did bring.
Last night a babe awakened, And, babe, how strange and new Must seem the home and people The Stork has brought you to; And yet methinks you like them - You neither stare nor weep, But closer to my dear one You cuddle, and you sleep!
Last night my heart grew fonder - 0 happy heart of mine, Sing of the inspirations That round my pathway shine! And sing your sweetest love-song To this dear nestling wee The Stork from 'Way-Out-Yonder Hath brought to mine and me!