hive clip

I have always a lively respect 
for guns. It's at least why 
I'm here now, 
in sum
and with all
my parts, so oiled
and cocked. 
I expect
I'd be taken 
to pieces, once

shot.

But
I have 
a still livelier calm
for bees. Only

been 
stung
once!
It was not 
my slap, you see.
Just a helpful bro smacked
my neck, killing my

little friend 
unawares, stinging me

in death.

It's the
second sting

that comes, (so I'm given
to understand) 

could kill.
Not so with bullets!

One shot 
might do.

Others might 
not be so
allergic 
as you.