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diff --git a/40576-0.txt b/40576-0.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e439d75 --- /dev/null +++ b/40576-0.txt @@ -0,0 +1,3594 @@ +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 40576 *** + + "WINKS" + + A BOOK OF RECITATIONS FOR BOYS + + + "THOUGHTS" + + A BOOK OF READINGS FOR THE + GIRLS AND BOYS IN TEENS + + + BY + ALICE LEWIS RICHARDS + + + + +[Illustration: LAILA'S SMILES] + + + + + "SMILES" + + _A BOOK OF RECITATIONS + FOR GIRLS_ + + BY + ALICE LEWIS RICHARDS + + AKRON, OHIO + 1900 + + + COPYRIGHT, 1899 + BY + ALICE LEWIS RICHARDS + + + + +PREFACE + + +In writing this little book of recitations it has been the aim of the +author to help fill a long-felt want, namely: A work written especially +for children; with recitations suitable for all occasions, that will +please the children. + +Any little girl can find in this book "some piece to speak," from the +time she learns to talk until the time shall arrive for her to lay away +her dollies for other joys that come with later years. + + A. L. R. + + + + + My daughter, Laila Myrtle, + Though your years are only few, + This book of "Mama's Poems" + I dedicate to you. + + Some were written while you slumbered, + Some were written while you played; + Some the Muses brought to mama + While at grandma's you have stayed. + + Some were written for your pleasure + "'Cause you always liked to speak," + So I penned "Only a Sparrow," + That the moral you might teach. + + When you are grown, my daughter, + And back upon your childhood look, + Oh! how sweet will be the memories + Of the writing of this book! + + + + +CONTENTS + + + PAGE + +ROBIN'S RETURN 11 + +PAPA'S BEST GIRL 14 + +DOES JESUS KNOW 15 + +LILA'S CONCLUSION 17 + +EMMA'S IDEAL 20 + +ALICE'S CHOICE 22 + +WHAT JANIE THINKS 24 + +MYRTLE'S LETTER 27 + +ONLY A SPARROW 29 + +MAY'S APPLE-TREE 32 + +TEACHING A LESSON 34 + +THE LITTLE CRIB BED 38 + +ROBIN'S FAREWELL 40 + +THE FOOLISH FLOWERS 43 + +GRANDPA AND PET 46 + +WHEN I WAS A BABY 49 + +DOT'S NEW LEAF 51 + +DREAMING, SWEETLY DREAMING 53 + +THE SNOWDROP'S CALL 55 + +WHEN BROTHER WAS A SISTER 57 + +WE'RE ONLY LITTLE CHILDREN 61 + +A DREAM OF EASTER 62 + +MOTHER ROBIN 64 + +MABEL GRAY 67 + +THE NAUGHTY CROW 69 + +THE BIRDS' GOOD-NIGHT 70 + +SANTA'S QUEER JOKE 72 + +LITTLE SUNBEAMS 76 + +WHERE DO BABIES GO 77 + +WHEN MY KITTY WAS A KITTEN 80 + +THE BUSY LITTLE HOUSEKEEPER 82 + +GRANDMA'S POCKET 84 + +WHAT GOOD IS A BROTHER 86 + +MR. HOP-TOAD 89 + +MINNIE'S SECRET 90 + +NELLIE'S EASTER EGGS 92 + +WHEN DOLLY WAS SICK 95 + +AUNTIE'S PARLOR 98 + +OFF TO SCHOOL WE GO 100 + +CLARABEL'S VALENTINE 102 + +THANKSGIVING AT GRANDMA'S 105 + +DOLLY DAYS 109 + +THAT GIGGLE 112 + +MARION'S LAMENT 113 + +WHEN I'M A BIG GIRL 114 + +WHAT THE BELLS SAID 116 + +WHY 118 + +BECAUSE 120 + +HOW HAZEL KEPT HOUSE 122 + +DROPS OF HONEY 125 + +WHEN MY DOLLY WENT TO SCHOOL 126 + +THREE LITTLE KITTENS 128 + +THE SPIDER'S PARLOR 129 + +MOTHER GOOSE'S DINNER PARTY 132 + +OLIVE'S ADVICE 136 + +THE OLD AND THE NEW 137 + +PA'S WAYS 139 + +THE SPIDER AND THE BEE 142 + +KITTY BELL 143 + +THE BIRDS' PARTY 145 + +JANUARY 148 + +FEBRUARY 149 + +MARCH 150 + +APRIL 151 + +MAY 152 + +JUNE 153 + + + + + _Little girls with sunny smiles, + Little girls with happy whiles, + When you through these pages look, + I hope you will enjoy your book._ + + + + +ROBIN'S RETURN + + + A robin came one day in spring, + From South he flew with tired wing; + He looked around him then to see + An old familiar cherry-tree. + + There grew one by the kitchen door, + Redbreast had seen that one before; + He flew about, then lit up high, + And watched to see some one pass by. + + A girl came through the kitchen door, + Her years, I think, just numbered four; + She saw Redbreast, and called to him, + As he perched upon that cherry limb:-- + + "Oh, sweet robin! When did you come? + Are you hungry? Do you want a crumb? + Are you thirsty? Do you want a drink? + You must be very tired, I think. + + "Say, Sir Robin, why don't you sing? + Or don't you know that this is spring? + Where have you been this winter long? + I missed, so much, your little song!" + + "I flew about in a sunny clime, + Singing my 'cheer-up!' most the time. + And what did you, my little maid, + While I down South this winter stayed?" + + "When Christmas came we had a tree, + And that was nice for Lisle and me; + 'Twas hung so full of things all new, + I wish that you had seen it too. + + "I got some blocks and he a drum, + I tell you then we had some fun! + We got some dolls and whistles too, + And then we played, and then we blew. + + "We got a sled and went to slide; + We went to town and had a ride; + We popped some corn when days were cold, + And ate as much as we could hold. + + "One doll got sick and had the croup, + Another coughed with dreadful whoop; + And so, Redbreast, I think you'll see + I've been as busy as I could be. + + "And now, Redbreast, where is your mate? + What made her stay down South so late? + Why don't she come to build her nest, + And lay some eggs, and sit and rest?" + + "Oh, she'll come soon, and then you'll see + We'll build right here in this same tree, + And here we'll stay till cherries are gone, + And then sing you a parting song." + + + + +PAPA'S BEST GIRL + + + I'm mama's little baby, + I'm grandpa's little lady, + I'm uncle's little trouble, + I'm auntie's little bubble, + But, I'm papa's best girl. + + + + +DOES JESUS KNOW? + + + When the Easter chimes are ringing, + And the church choir gladly singing, + Of that Easter long ago; + When we sing the old, old story, + How He rose from death to glory, + How I wonder! does Jesus know? + + When we're singing of His dying, + And our music turns to sighing + O'er His suffering and His woe; + When we're singing of the morrow, + That will never more bring sorrow, + How I wonder! does Jesus know? + + When we're singing of the flowers, + And of springtime and the showers + That doth make the grasses grow; + When our songs are all of praises + For the lilies and the daisies, + How I wonder! does Jesus know? + + Does He hear us when we're singing? + Does He hear the church bells ringing + As they're swinging to and fro? + Does He hear us when we're praying? + Does He hear what we are saying? + How I wonder! does Jesus know? + + Yes, up in that land of glory, + Where no one is ever sorry, + All our heavenly music goes. + So no longer will I wonder + If He hears us way up yonder, + For I'm _sure_ that Jesus _knows_. + + + + +LILA'S CONCLUSION + + + You may talk about old Santa Claus, + With his sleigh and fleeting deer; + You may tell about his furry coat + And the jingling bells you hear. + + You may talk about the Christmas trees + Which he loads with lots of toys; + You may tell about the dolls and sleds + That he brings for girls and boys. + + You may picture him in story-books. + With a beard that's long and white; + You may paint him when he's going down + Through the chimneys in the night. + + You may tell the story o'er and o'er + Just the way 'twas told to you; + And I've listened to it often, + But I've learned it isn't true. + + You may write about his pretty deer, + As they climb upon the roofs, + But it's very plain to any one + That they can't climb up with hoofs. + + And I know that Santa never went + Down a chimney in the night, + For they all are dark and small around, + And they'd squeeze him awful tight. + + If he ever did get into one, + Then he never could get out, + For they picture him in story-books + With a form that's broad and stout. + + Then he can't come through the outside doors, + For the bolts and locks are there; + Nor he can't get through the cellar door + To climb the cellar stair. + + Nor he never could get over all + This whole world in a night, + To fill the little stockings up, + And get home before it's light. + + Then no one ever seems to know + Where the dear old fellow dwells; + And no-one ever saw his sleigh, + Nor heard his jingling bells. + + I've looked the maps all through and through, + But his home I cannot find; + So at last I've concluded this: + That he's only "in your mind." + + And this pretty little tale you tell + To the babies may be told; + But 'twill hardly do for me to hear, + For I've grown too big and old. + + + + +EMMA'S IDEAL + + + I like to see a handsome boy, + With good and honest face; + The one who has a twinkling eye + And form of manly grace. + + I like to see him go to school, + And like to see him play; + But much, I fear, of what he does + Is time just thrown away. + + I much admire the little man + Who brings the coal and wood; + And helps his mama when she's tired, + As every good boy should. + + I like the boy who never steals + The pie upon the shelf; + And never hunts the cookies up + To eat them all himself. + + I like the boy who heeds advice, + And does as he should do; + And so I like the thoughtful lad + Who's good to sister too. + + And thus you see my views are plain, + And when I older grow + I sometimes think--I guess--may be-- + That I--shall have--a beau. + + But he must be the model lad, + Who does not chew nor swear; + And he must be a temperance boy, + Who goes not on a tear. + + He must not speak of parents dear, + Regardless of respect; + He must not call them fogies old, + Nor their advice reject. + + And so the one that I will take, + And love him as a brother, + Will be the good, old-fashioned boy, + Who always minds his mother. + + + + +ALICE'S CHOICE + + + I'd ruther be a little girl + An' have a lovely doll, + Than be a boy with a pistol toy, + Or have a bat an' ball. + + I'd ruther be a little girl, + 'Cause they are sweeter far + Than all the boys with all their noise, + No differns who they are. + + For little girls is always good, + An' try to do their part; + But boys will shirk their share of work, + An' think they're acting smart. + + An' little boys is naughty too, + An' often tease us girls, + About our dresses an' our tresses, + An' pull our pretty curls. + + They laugh at us jess 'cause we cry + When we gits hurt at play; + But we don't care,--they do their share + Of cryin' every day. + + They calls us little "frady-calves," + 'Cause we's afeard of mice, + An' dogs, an' cats, an' snakes, an' rats, + An' other things not nice. + + But we'd ruther all be little girls, + An' let them call us babies, + Than all the boys with pistol toys, + For they don't grow to ladies. + + + + +WHAT JANIE THINKS + + + I'd like to see old Santa Claus + And find out who he really was. + + I think 'twould be a pretty sight + To see him coming in the night. + + And watch him on the housetops ride, + Then see him down the chimneys glide. + + I think it's very, very queer + The way he comes round every year. + + For no one ever sees or knows + Just how he comes or how he goes. + + And how he can so quiet be, + Is the very strangest part to me. + + But Christmas morn, in early dawn, + We're sure to find he's come and gone; + + For there upon our Christmas tree + Are toys for brothers and for me. + + But not a mark, or not a track, + Does he ever leave when going back. + + And so I've wondered many a time + How Santa could the chimney climb. + + I think 'twould be a better way + To travel round by light of day; + + Than go a-prowling round at night + Like burglars do, to keep from sight. + + Then little children all could see + Who their good Santa Claus might be. + + And then we'd know, without being told, + If Santa Claus was young or old. + + If he was fat, or very thin, + If he had whiskers on his chin. + + If he was short or very tall-- + Why, girls like us would know it all. + + Then how much nicer it would be + For him to come when we could see, + + Than always come when we're asleep, + So none of us at him can peep. + + I think I'll write him just a line + And say: "Please come some other time; + + "For I don't think it looks just right + For you to always come at night." + + + + +MYRTLE'S LETTER + + + I think I will write to old Santa, + And ask for a few little things; + And then I will try to be patient, + And wait to see what he brings. + + I'll write him to bring me a dolly, + With eyes of a beautiful brown, + With hair that is all in gold ringlets, + And dressed in a beautiful gown. + + I'll ask him to bring me a buggy, + To take my new dolly to ride; + I'll ask for a cunning, swift runner, + So dolly can go out to slide. + + I'll write him to bring me a banjo, + A harp, and a cute little drum; + I'll wish for a sweet-toned organ + And a _whole_ big box full of gum. + + I want him to bring a wee table, + That is made for girlies like me; + And a set of little blue dishes, + So I can have company to tea. + + I'll hint that I need some new dresses, + For mine are all faded and old; + I'll tell him I need some new mittens, + To wear when the weather is cold. + + But maybe I'd better stop wishing, + And finish my letter with care, + For fear dear old Santa may fancy + I'm asking for _more_ than _my_ share. + + I'll write him my stocking is hanging + Right close to my head, on the wall; + I'll tell him the right way to manage + In case that my stocking's too small. + + I'll tell him to look in the corner, + At the foot of the bed, he'll see + A place that I think is just lovely + To fasten a cute little tree. + + + + +ONLY A SPARROW + + + A sparrow flew to my window one day, + And in a bird's way he began there to say: + "Chirp, chirp, little girl, please listen to me + I'm hungry and cold as a sparrow can be! + + "I'd like a small crumb or something to eat, + And may I come in and warm my poor feet? + They're almost frozen out here in the snow; + So kind little girl, please do not say no." + + I listened to him and then shook my head; + And to that poor sparrow I saucily said: + "Well, Mr. Sparrow, if your story is true, + I don't think I'll trouble myself about you. + + "You're a plain-looking bird with a dirty old coat, + And you never once sang a sweet little note + So, Mr. Sparrow, you may just fly along, + For I feed none but birds of beauty and song." + + "But think, little girl, were you a bird like me, + And were out in the cold with your home in a tree, + And you came to my house in the cold, deep snow, + Would you think it were kind if I treated you so? + + "Would you think it quite right to be twitted that way, + Just because of your coat was not handsome and gay? + Would you think it would be nice if you could not sing + To be counted as naught but a poor useless thing? + + "I know I'm not handsome, and my chirp is not sweet, + I know I'm not loved by the most that I meet; + But I'm just as God made me, a plain little bird, + And have, in this world, a right to be heard. + + "And the birds of great beauty you like to see, + In the sight of our Maker are no better than me. + So I bid you adieu, my proud little miss, + But some time I pray you will just think of this: + + "That kind little deeds by a good little child + So often will tame a nature that's wild. + Then always be kind and never be rude, + And hold to your tongue in an angry mood." + + Then he nodded his head and flew far away, + And I saw him no more that cold winter day. + But, oh! how sorry and grieved was I then, + When I saw how very unkind I had been. + + He was only a sparrow, so humble and plain, + But the lesson he taught me will always remain. + As I journey through life I shall keep it in mind, + And never again will I act so unkind. + + + + +MAY'S APPLE-TREE + + + One April day + Our little May + Did plant an apple-tree; + Although 'twas slow, + She watched it grow + Until its years were three. + + She oft would say, + In her sweet way, + "How tall you going to be? + I'd like to know + If you can grow + To be as big as me?" + + So one Spring day + When little May + Stood by her apple-tree; + What do you think? + Some buds in pink + Were there for her to see. + + She laughed in glee + Those buds to see, + And smelt their sweet perfume; + And blossoms white + Were soon in sight, + Upon the tree in bloom. + + Then apples green + So soon were seen, + As round as they could be; + And so they grew + In sun and dew + Upon her apple-tree. + + Then May did eat + The apples sweet, + As nice as they could be; + Then little May + Had her full pay + For planting that one tree. + + + + +TEACHING A LESSON + + + They were gazing through the window, + On a cold December day, + At the pretty toys for children, + That were shown in fine array. + + One was robed in richest raiment, + With a face so bright and glad; + One was dressed in poorest garments, + With a face so wan and sad. + + While they gazed upon the window, + Said the rich one to the poor: + "Ain't it nice that Christmas is coming, + For that brings old Santa sure. + + "Oh! he's going to bring a dolly, + And a lovely Christmas tree, + And some toys and nuts and candy + And some story-books for me. + + "Don't you know what he will bring you?-- + Lots of pretty toys, I guess! + And a cloak and pair of mittens, + And, perhaps, a pretty dress." + + But the little child made answer, + With a deep, unbidden sigh: + "Santa never comes to see me, + And I never knew just why. + + "Nor I don't have pretty playthings + Like some other children do; + Nor the toys and nuts and candy + That old Santa brings to you. + + "For we live down in an alley, + In a house that's poor and old; + And we scarcely can keep warm + When the nights are chill and cold. + + "And my mama sews to keep us, + So it's all that she can do + With the little that she's earning + Just to feed and clothe us two. + + "So, perhaps, that's why old Santa + Never knocks upon our door, + 'Cause he don't care for the children + Of the people who are poor." + + To the little child of plenty, + 'Twas a story strange, but true, + That her Santa was so partial, + And would give to such a few. + + Home she ran and told her mama + All the story, strange and sad: + "He's a naughty, naughty Santa, + So I'll make the children glad. + + "I will just make up some bundles + Of the things he brings to me, + Then I'll play that I am Santa, + With a pretty Christmas tree. + + "And I'll go down the alley + And that little girl I'll find; + That will teach him such a lesson! + One, I think, he'll always mind. + + "Then I'll write a different letter + From the ones he's had before; + And I'll tell him it's his duty + Just to stop at every door. + + "That, I guess, will set him thinking + All about his conduct here; + Then the poor he will remember + When he comes another year." + + So out went the little Santa + With the bundles from her tree; + And she passed not by a doorway + Where she found that want might be. + + And the lesson for old Santa + In her childish way she taught + To the selfish ones about her, + Who for others had no thought. + + + + +THE LITTLE CRIB BED + + + There's a little crib bed that is unused now, + And is stowed in the garret with care; + For the wee baby girl that slept in that bed + Will never again dream there. + + There's a little old pillow of matted down, + But no more 'twill be tumbled at night; + For the little babe's head that rested there + Now sleeps on a pillow more light. + + There's a little odd quilt of an ancient style, + That was pieced from the dresses she wore; + But it lies in the bed now undisturbed, + For the baby will kick it no more. + + So this little crib bed is stowed away now, + And the pillow is minus its case; + And the little, odd quilt, now faded and old, + Is neatly tucked in its place. + + In memory again we only shall see + The babe in her little, snug fold; + But we treasure the bed, with pillow and quilt, + For the baby it used to hold. + + Yet how happy the times in the olden days, + When the baby was sung off to sleep, + And the sweet curls lay on the pillow of down, + With the quilt tucked over her feet. + + But the baby has gone to a chamber above, + That is furnished in colors of light; + And the bed where she rests is one of ease, + With a cover all spotless and white. + + In her picture again we only shall see + The ringlets of gold on her head; + For her hair--is done up and she's grown too tall + To sleep in that little crib bed. + + + + +ROBIN'S FAREWELL + + + A robin had come to bid me good-by, + And up in a tree had perched himself high; + He seemed not to mind that the day was cold, + But sang his sweet song the same as of old. + + The morning was drear and leafless the tree, + But dear old robin! so happy was he! + I said to him, "Robin, why do you wait? + It seems to me you are staying too late. + + "The weather is cold, the flowers are dead, + The trees all their leaves have long ago shed; + You'd better be going before the snow comes, + Or hungry you'll be, and looking for crumbs. + + "And old Jack Frost will be after your feet, + Then you'll need your wing to cover your beak. + So, Robin, please hurry away, or you'll freeze + If you stay around here in the leafless trees." + + But robin sang on, and, nodding his head, + "Don't worry for me," he knowingly said, + "I'm not a bit 'fraid of Jack or the snow, + That's why I have been in no hurry to go. + + "It won't take me long to fly away there, + Where trees are all green and balmy the air; + It's just a nice trip for this time of year, + And I've made it before, so I haven't a fear." + + "But, Robin, you know that the rain might fall, + And the day might end in a dreadful squall; + So I cannot see why you have been so slow, + For the rest have flown there long ago. + + "Say, what do you do in that far sunny clime? + Does Santa Claus come there at Christmas time? + You cannot go coasting, or skating on ice, + So I don't think the South can be very nice." + + "When you are watching for Santa Claus' sleigh, + He travels down South in a far differ'nt way. + In a great air ship, with fairies for guides, + From chimney to chimney he quietly rides. + + "When you are coasting adown some hill, + I'll be drinking from some rippling rill; + When you are freezing your feet on your skates, + I'll be sailing o'er beautiful lakes. + + "When you are making a man out of snow, + I'll be tending some wild-flower show; + When you are trying your best to keep warm, + I'll be away from Jack Frost's harm. + + "But now I am going to say good-by, + So, dear little girl, for me do not cry. + I'll not be afraid though the journey is long, + For my body is warm and my wings are strong. + + "But if I grow tired and think 'twill be best, + I'll stop on the way and take a short rest; + And in the glad spring I'll come flying back, + And others will follow right on in my track. + + "So watch for my coming and list for my song, + For winter is short and you won't wait long"; + Then he sang unto me a robin's adieu, + And opened his wings and southward he flew. + + + + +THE FOOLISH FLOWERS + + + Miss Chrysanth'um gave a party + On a cool October night, + And invited in the flowers + That had tender buds in sight. + + Then she whispered to the Pansy + That old Jack was coming soon, + And he'd nip her tender budlets + If she left them out to bloom. + + Then she told the grand Nasturtium, + That was climbing up the wall, + That if Jack should overtake her + She was sure to have a fall. + + And she said to Miss Petunia: + "You must find a hiding-place, + For if Jack should chance to kiss you + He would spoil your pretty face." + + And the other summer flowers, + That were blooming rather late, + She told them all to hide away, + Or they'd meet a frosty fate. + + So they put their heads together, + All the flowers that were wise, + And they planned to fool old Jack + With his sparkling, piercing eyes. + + But the flowers that were foolish, + When she bade them take advice, + Shook their heads of flowery beauty + And they laughed at frost and ice. + + Miss Chrysanth'um helped the wise ones + In the plans that they had laid: + So they gathered leaves of maple, + And some coverlets then made. + + When old Jack came stealing onward, + With the stars all shining bright, + Not a flower among the wise ones + Was there left to greet his sight. + + All were hidden under covers + Made from leaves of Autumn's gold; + And Jack then failed to find them + Though he was so sharp and old. + + But the Marigold was laughing, + When he chanced to pass her by; + And Nasturtium still was climbing + O'er the wall so old and high. + + Then he blew his breath upon them + And they both began to sneeze; + Soon the tender buds and blossoms + Of the flowers began to freeze. + + When the sun shone out next morning + O'er the pretty flower-bed, + All the wise ones were rejoicing + But the foolish ones--were dead. + + + + +GRANDPA AND PET + + + Grandpa was holding his pet on his lap, + Grandpa and pet were taking a nap. + + Off in far dreamland were grandpa and May, + Looking for goodies for Thanksgiving Day. + + Jogging along, he was holding her hand, + Viewing the sights in funny dreamland. + + Looking for turkeys, dressed up in gowns, + Shooing at goblins wearing bright crowns. + + Smiling at puddings a-walking on legs, + Laughing at dumplings a-sitting on pegs. + + Onward and onward went grandpa and May, + Looking for goodies for Thanksgiving Day. + + Hunting for turkeys stuffed and roasted, + Longing for bread buttered and toasted. + + 'Round and 'round went grandpa and May, + Hungry as two little children at play. + + Finding at last a table all spread, + Grandpa and May sat down at the head. + + Looking it o'er some goodies they spied, + "See! Grandpa, see!" little May cried: + + "There's a turkey stuffed and roasted! + There's some bread buttered and toasted! + + "There's some dumplings sitting on pegs! + There's a pudding standing on legs! + + "There's a clock that's mountains high, + Reaching up against the sky!" + + Soon the clock began to chime, + Everything marched off in line. + + 'Round and 'round in giddy whirl, + Passed the man and little girl. + + Pet and grandpa watched them all, + Wond'ring that they did not fall. + + He helped himself and little May, + As the turkey came their way; + + Piled their plates up full and high, + As the rest came marching by. + + Just as grandpa took a bite, + Sleeping pet then moved a mite, + + Slipped and fell from grandpa's lap, + Right then ended grandpa's nap. + + Back from dreamland came the two, + Sorry that their trip was through. + + + + +WHEN I WAS A BABY + + + When I was a baby + They said I was "sweet"; + I'd such dimpled hands + And soft, little feet. + + My head, it was bald, + My teeth had not come; + But then just the same + I chewed my own gum. + + My eyes they were blue, + My lips they were thin, + My cheeks they were dimpled, + And so was my chin. + + I was very good-natured, + Full of frolic and fun; + And they said I was "cute" + For a baby so young. + + And when I grew older + I learned how to talk; + And soon after creeping, + I learned how to walk. + + I trotted about + Most all of the day; + And got into mischief + When I wasn't in play. + + I've kept on growing + And now am quite tall + And think it much nicer + Than being so small. + + I'm growing much older + And soon will be eight; + And so long to grow big + I scarcely can wait. + + + + +DOT'S NEW LEAF + + + As Dot sat by the fire one night, + She thought of times gone past; + Of summer days, of romps, and plays, + Of school, and its hard task. + + She thought of times of misspelled words, + And numbers hard to sum, + Of tardy lines, and awful times, + And scales she could not run. + + So Dot resolved that winter night, + The new year she would try + To study well, and learn to spell, + And sing the scale up high. + + So when began the winter term, + And Dot went off to school, + She with the rest then tried her best + To learn each little rule. + + Though little Dot meant all she said, + Somehow 'twas hard to do; + 'Twas greater fun to slide or run + Than multiply by two. + + The seat grew hard, the teacher cross, + And lessons harder got; + "I'd rather skate than use my slate," + So mused poor little Dot. + + When time wore on to balmy days, + With sunshine and with showers; + She stayed away from school, to play + And gather wild-wood flowers. + + So when, at last, the school was closed, + She dropped behind the class; + For little Dot, her leaf forgot, + And then she did not pass. + + + + +DREAMING, SWEETLY DREAMING + + + I have tucked away my dollies + All so snugly in their bed, + And I listened to the prayers + That my little dollies said. + Oh, they were so tired and sleepy, + For they played so many hours; + But now they're dreaming, sweetly dreaming, + Of the birds and pretty flowers. + + They have played among the daisies, + And among the lilies too; + They were romping in the clover, + And were picking violets blue. + They have chased the shining sunbeams + That came flitting from the skies; + But now they're dreaming, sweetly dreaming, + Of the birds and butterflies. + + They have picked the blushing roses, + And have kissed the starry bells, + And found the sweet forget-me-nots + Where they bloom in flowery dells. + They have romped among the grasses + That were fanned by evening breeze, + But now they're dreaming, sweetly dreaming, + Of the birds and humming bees. + + When the stars have ceased to twinkle, + And the sky is bright and clear; + When the sun is up and shining, + And the dewdrops disappear; + When the little fish are swimming, + Swimming in the sunny streams, + Then my dollies will be waking, + Waking from their happy dreams. + + + + +THE SNOWDROP'S CALL + + + "Come, wake up," said the Snowdrop + To a Crocus sleeping nigh, + "The sun is brightly shining, + And there's blue up in the sky. + + "The snow has left the hill tops, + And the frost is going too; + So it's time that you were waking, + For to show your face of blue. + + "Come, Daffodil, I'm calling; + You are sleeping much too long; + For the bluebirds are returning, + And I've heard the robin's song. + + "The South wind is gently blowing, + For I heard it 'mongst the trees + And the Hyacinth is waking + To perfume the gentle breeze. + + "Come, Jonquil, do not linger! + For the morn is passing fast; + If you soon are not awaking, + You will surely be the last." + + The Crocus 'woke up quickly + When she heard the Snowdrop's call; + And put forth her face of blue + When the snow began to fall. + + She shivered in the snowflakes + That fell about her feet; + Then was sorry she was wakened + From her winter's quiet sleep. + + "You have called us all too early," + Said the sleepy Daffodil, + "For the North wind still is blowing, + And the nights are cold and chill." + + Then they all dropped back to slumber + Till the days some warmer grew; + Then their winter nap was ended, + And they 'woke and blossomed too. + + + + +WHEN BROTHER WAS A SISTER + + + When brother was a little girl, + She never wore her hair in curl; + + But she was very good and sweet, + And had the "cutest" dimpled feet! + + Her little hands were soft and white, + And so she kept them day and night. + + Her dimpled cheeks were pretty too, + In rosy tints of nature's hue. + + And oh! such happy times had we, + My little sister Lisle and me. + + We sometimes kept a little store, + And sold our playthings o'er and o'er. + + And through the long, long summer day, + Upon the lawn we used to play. + + We played with dishes and with dolls, + With dolly cabs and rubber balls. + + She helped to wash the dishes too, + Like little sisters always do. + + And in her sorrows I could share, + For sister was my only care. + + And with a loving sister's arm + I used to shield her from all harm. + + Then life for me was all a joy + Before Lisle turned into a boy. + + But Time flies on his changing wings, + And many curious changes brings. + + The creeping worm becomes a fly, + And wings his way toward the sky. + + The golden egg within the nest, + Becomes a chick with downy breast. + + The pollywog becomes a frog, + And croaks within his hidden bog. + + And little sisters turn to boys, + And leave their dolls for warlike toys + + Then Time brought me the saddest day, + When sister's frocks were laid away. + + The little cloak and bonnet too + Were changed for cap and coat of blue. + + And for the girl with sweetest face-- + A boy had stepped into her place. + + A boy! and oh, so changed is he! + From the little girl he used to be. + + The dimpled feet are brown and bare, + And rough and tumbled is his hair. + + The rosy cheeks of nature's hue-- + Sometimes they're black, sometimes they're blue. + + The little hands so soft and white-- + With dirt begrimed, they are a sight. + + Now through the long, long summer days, + Upon the coalhouse roof he plays. + + And on the roof he sits and fishes, + And never helps me wash the dishes. + + He scorns the sister's loving arm + That used to shield him from all harm; + + And for my loving, watchful care, + He turns his nose up in the air. + + Oh! I wish he'd never turned into a boy, + To bring such woe instead of joy; + + But stayed a little girl like me, + For then my life would happier be. + + + + +WE'RE ONLY LITTLE CHILDREN + + + We're only little children, + And not so very wise; + So don't expect too much, + And do not criticise. + + We came here for your pleasure, + And 'twould be hardly right + If we should make mistakes, + For you to laugh to-night. + + So won't you kindly listen, + And patience try to keep? + Don't whisper to each other, + Nor yawn and go to sleep. + + We're only little children, + But think, when we are through, + You big folks all will say + We did as well as you. + + + + +A DREAM OF EASTER + + + When Nell her evening prayer had said, + And climbed into her snowy bed, + She closed her little weary eyes, + To dream of wonders in the skies, + And dream of days of long ago, + When her dear Savior was laid low. + + She saw Him nailed upon the cross, + And heard poor Mary grieve her loss, + Then saw Him laid within the tomb, + Where all was dark as midnight gloom; + And saw the loved ones turn away + From where their dear, dead Savior lay. + + She heard an earthquake's rumbling sound, + And felt the shaking of the ground, + Then saw a white-robed angel band + Descend to earth from heaven land; + And at the breaking of the day, + She saw one roll the stone away. + + A glorious light dispelled the gloom + That reigned within the Savior's tomb; + And forth He came, in garments white, + Amid the morning stars of light; + A shining crown was on his head, + For He had risen from the dead. + + The band of angels sweetly sang + Until the tomb with music rang; + The birds cooed softly in the trees, + And sweet perfume was on the breeze; + The sun arose in splendor bright, + To shed o'er earth his beaming light + + When Nell awoke within her bed, + "It is our Easter morn," she said, + "Such visions fair in sleep I've seen, + For Jesus rose up in my dream. + Out from the tomb I saw Him rise + And pass beyond the heavenly skies; + And with a band of angels fair, + He went to heaven to dwell up there." + + + + +MOTHER ROBIN + + + A robin was sitting high up in a tree, + And was happy as ever a robin could be; + In a nice little nest that was built by two, + She was sitting on four small eggs of blue. + + Her mate on a limb was sitting close nigh, + And thinking of birds that would come by-and-by. + He always kept near that little home-nest, + And often would sit to give his mate rest. + + When she grew tired of waiting so long, + He would cheer her up with a sweet little song. + In a very short time her sitting was o'er, + And the birds in her nest numbered just four. + + A sweet little girl lived near to this tree, + Who was happy as ever a girl could be; + She had a nice doll, that had a nice swing, + That had hung in this tree since early in spring. + + One day she was swinging her doll to and fro, + Mother Robin was peeking at her below; + She said: "Little girl, little girl, look up to me, + I've four little birdies for you to see." + + "O Mother Robin, I'm glad they have come! + I'll go right now and bring you a crumb; + I'll bring one for your mate and each of the four, + And when supper is ready I'll bring you some more." + + "All right, little girl, I wish that you would, + I'm glad to see you so thoughtful and good; + But I wish you would keep old Tabby away, + For I know she was gazing up here to-day." + + "O Mother Robin, you must have no alarm! + For Tabby, I'm sure, will do you no harm; + She's a good old cat and minds what I say, + But I'll tell her again not to come this way. + + "Will you give me a birdie? one of your four, + I only want one and not any more; + I have a nice cage I could hang in the tree, + And birdie, I know, would be happy with me." + + "Oh, no; little girl, it never will do + To part with my birdie and give her to you; + She never could live shut up in a cage, + And my mate, I fear, would fly in a rage. + + "Will you give me your doll? I'd like to have one + For my little birdies, you know they have none; + When they get older they'll all want to play, + And I've room by my nest to tuck her away." + + "Oh, no; Mother Robin, my dolly would cry, + If she lived in a nest that was up so high; + When the wind blew my dolly would fall, + Then down would come birdies, nest, and all. + + "So I'll keep my dolly, for I think it is best, + And you keep your birds till they fly from the nest; + They will be happier, I know, to be free, + And my dolly's contented to stay here with me." + + + + +MABEL GRAY + + + Early to her slumber + Went little Mabel Gray; + Rose up in the morning + Just at the peep o' day. + + Busy little maiden + Was little Mabel Gray; + Doing all her house work + Before she went to play. + + Helping in the kitchen + To keep things shining bright; + Dusting in the parlor, + And setting things to right. + + Singing all the daytime, + From morn till dewy night; + Shedding rays of brightness + Like stars of purest light. + + Busy little woman, + And with a loving heart, + Never shirked her duty, + But always did her part. + + Charming little woman, + And loving little wife, + Ever bright and cheerful, + Lived a long and happy life. + + + + +THE NAUGHTY CROW + + + A blackbird was swinging + On a blackberry bush; + When there came an old crow + And gave him a push. + + Then the blackbird fell + From the blackberry bush; + And the old crow crowed + 'Cause he gave him that push. + + + + +THE BIRDS' GOOD-NIGHT + + + "Good-night," said the robin, + As he finished his song; + "I am going to sleep + Till the morning doth dawn." + + "Good-night," said the bluebird, + As he sought his snug nest; + "Now the evening draws near, + I am going to rest." + + "Good-night," said the lark, + As he hushed his lay; + "I am off to my sleep + Till the break of the day." + + "Good-night," said the thrush + As he trilled his last note; + "I am off to my roost + In the broad spreading oak." + + "Good-night," said a maid + As she nodded her head, + "When you've gone to your rest, + I am going to bed. + + "I have finished my work, + And have finished my play; + And am glad for the night + At the close of the day. + + "I am sleepy and tired, + And I long for my bed; + For the soft, downy pillow, + Where I lay my wee head. + + "And to dream there sweetly + Till the sun shines bright: + Till then, my birdies, + Good-night, good-night." + + + + +SANTA'S QUEER JOKE + + + When Santa came one wintry night, + A pair of stockings hung in sight + + Just side by side upon the wall-- + But one was large and one was small. + + When Santa turned and saw them there, + He said: "Well, that's a queer-matched pair! + + "This girl is up to tricks I see, + And thinks she'll play a joke on me; + + "But I'll look 'round and soon find out + What this fair miss has been about." + + And then he took the stockings down, + And a folded note in one he found. + + 'Twas written plain, so Santa read + Each line and word the wee note said: + + "Dear, dear Santa, I hope you won't mind + Because two stockings you happen to find. + + "Don't think I'm greedy, that won't be fair! + For one is grandma's you see hung there. + + "You have not filled it since she was young, + So I hung it up to have some fun. + + "So please, dear Santa, do not scold, + For grandma now is getting old. + + "She wants some specs, so she can see + To knit some winter mitts for me. + + "Then 'twould be nice if you've enough + So you could spare a box of snuff. + + "Some gum to chew, some nuts to crack-- + I'm sure you've got them in your pack. + + "She needs a cap with lace and strings, + So, Santa, please give her these things. + + "That's all I'll ask; if you'll do this, + I'll pay you some time with a kiss." + + "This little girl, with heart of gold, + Must love her grandma now so old. + + "And it's all for fun! Yes, yes, I see!" + Then Santa laughed again with glee. + + "I'll carry the joke as far as I can, + For I like some fun, if I am an old man." + + Then dropping his pack upon the floor, + He looked its contents o'er and o'er, + + And found a cap, some specs, and gum, + A whistle, doll, and little drum; + + A nice red sled, and doll buggy, too, + Old Santa found as he searched them through. + + Into grandma's stocking he stuffed the doll; + Although 'twas large, it wouldn't hold all. + + Then tied with a string the sticks and drum, + And said: "Now grandma can have some fun." + + Then into the other, the one so small, + He stuffed the cap, specs, snuff, and all. + + Then said to himself, the jolly old man, + "I've carried the joke as far as I can. + + "I'd better be off ere grandma is waking, + Or maybe I'll get a jolly good shaking." + + Then should'ring his pack till his form was bent, + He got into mischief wherever he went. + + Then in the morning, when grandma awoke, + She laughed, till she cried, at Santa's queer joke. + + + + +LITTLE SUNBEAMS + + + We're a band of little children, + That is gathered here to-day, + And we're working for our Savior, + In our little childish way. + + In the path that lies before us, + In this world of ours below, + We will strive to do our duty, + As we ever onward go. + + We are as the light of morning, + That comes peeping through the pane; + We are like the rays of sunshine, + That we welcome after rain. + + We are just some little sunbeams + That are scattered here and there; + And without us little sunbeams, + This great world would not be fair. + + + + +WHERE DO BABIES GO? + + + Where has baby gone to? + Asks a mother dear; + Why has darling baby + Left me lonely here? + And my pretty home + Grown so still and drear? + + Where are all the playthings + That lay upon the floor? + Where's the little dolly cab + That bumped against the door? + It's stowed now in the attic, + For she'll never want it more. + + So she went and left us, + Our little baby May, + And we are so lonely + Since she went away, + That we wish our baby + Would come back and stay. + + There's a dreadful longing + In poor mama's breast, + Where her precious baby + Laid her head to rest; + And slept so sweetly, + Like birdies in their nest. + + Where has baby gone to? + Says mama with a sigh; + Where has baby gone to? + And a tear is in her eye, + And will my darling baby + Come back by-and-by? + + She gazes from the window, + And sees the faces sweet + Of the pretty children, + Coming down the street; + But not a face like baby's + Does she chance to meet. + + Soon a winsome lassie + Comes tripping into view, + With head of flaxen curls, + And eyes of deepest blue, + And a loving heart + That always beats so true. + + Mama sees the lassie + That took the baby's place, + With the same blue eyes, + But not the baby face; + For the winsome lassie + Has one of older grace. + + And that's where baby went to; + But no one ever knows + How the baby disappears, + Or how the baby goes, + Only that a baby + Eats, and laughs, and grows. + + + + +WHEN MY KITTY WAS A KITTEN + + + When my kitty was a kitten, + That was many years ago, + Her was dest the sweetest kitten + Of any kitten that I know. + + An' her wore a ribby ribbon + That was striped in stripes of blue; + An' her purred the sweetest pur + When her didn't mew her mew. + + Her was dest as good an' gentle + As a kitten ever was; + An' was berry neat an' 'ticular + 'Bout her little pawey paws. + + Her was full of fun an' frolic, + An' her played wiv paper balls; + An' her sleeped her little sleeps + Wiv my darling dolly dolls. + + But my kitty's growed a catty + An' forgot her cunnin' plays; + An' her doesn't like my dollies, + So her spits an' runs aways. + + Nor her isn't sweet an' gentle + Like my kitten used to was; + For her scratches little misses + Wiv her naughty scratchy claws. + + Oh! I's sorry that her's bigger + Than my kitten used to be; + For a kitten's awful sweeter + Than a catty is to me. + + + + +THE BUSY LITTLE HOUSEKEEPER + + + I's such a busy little housekeeper, + An' dot so much to do, + I has to stop an' think a bit, + If ever I tan git froo. + + For there's my dollie's bed to make + An' pretty dess to mend; + An' there's my little baby doll + That I must stop to tend. + + Whenever she wakes up at morn, + She's sure to fret or cry, + Unless I rocks her for a while + An' sings a lullaby. + + An' there's my little bruver Joe, + He's such a naughty tease, + He always wants my dolly boy, + But never will say "Please." + + He makes such lots an' lots of work + For mama an' for me; + I often wish he was a fish + A-swimmin' in the sea. + + An' when I has such busy days, + An' dot so much to do, + To care for all my dollies dear, + He never helps me froo. + + I musn't stop no longer now + To tell you nuthin' more; + I thinks I hear my dollie scream, + Like she's tumbled on the floor. + + I has to go an' git her now, + An' hush her up right quick; + Or maybe she will hold her breff, + An' then git awful sick. + + + + +GRANDMA'S POCKET + + + I have a lovely grandma + Who's very dear to me; + I go to see her oftentimes + And sit upon her knee. + + She tells me pretty stories + Just what I like to hear; + She thinks I'm very nice, I guess, + And calls me little dear. + + My grandma has a lovely dress + She's worn a long, long while; + She made it all herself, she said, + When pockets were in style. + + It's made with pointed, ruffled waist, + That has a surplice twist; + And has the old-time bishop sleeve + That buttons at the wrist. + + The skirt does hang so nicely too, + And always looks so well, + It has not any train to it, + Nor was it cut a bell. + + It has a lovely pocket though! + That's big, and wide, and deep, + I always find out where it is + And slyly take a peep. + + "There is something in my pocket, dear," + Says grandma every time. + I'm sure to find a penny there, + Or else a silver dime. + + "It's yours, my little girlie dear!" + Says grandma, with a kiss, + "So keep them all, my little one, + Until you're grown a miss." + + I'm saving up my money now + To buy a golden locket; + And have her picture placed in it + With dimes from out her pocket. + + + + +WHAT GOOD IS A BROTHER? + + + What good is a brother? + I never could see, + But only to tease + A poor sister like me, + And that is as naughty, + As naughty can be. + + He's nothing but trouble, + And mama's great care, + And always in mischief + A-doing his share; + And no peace in the house + Whenever he's there. + + He hangs up my doll + At the foot of the bed, + With my new skipping-rope + Until she is dead; + Then laughs at the tears + That it makes me shed. + + Then he teases my kitty, + Like the bad boys do, + By pulling her tail + Till it's nearly in two; + Then whistles and laughs + When he hears her mew. + + If I had my wish, + Do you know what I'd say? + I'd tell my poor mama + To give him away + To grandpa and grandma, + And there make him stay. + + But, then, poor grandpa! + He never could nap + Without a bad boy + Crawling up on his lap, + And whipping his knees + To make them get-ap. + + And poor, dear grandma, + So patient and kind, + It worries her so + Because he won't mind; + And then her glasses + She never could find. + + I suppose I must live, + And try, if I can, + To bear with his capers + Until he's a man; + + But I do hope then + My brother will see + What a lot of trouble + He has been to me. + + + + +MR. HOP-TOAD + + + A hop-toad came out + One day in the spring. + He struck up a tune, + And began to sing; + + The weather was cold + And made his voice crack, + So poor old hop-toad + Just waddled right back. + + + + +MINNIE'S SECRET + + + I've got a little secret + I'd like to have you know; + So, now, I'm going to tell it:-- + My sister has a beau. + + She looks so sweet and pretty + When Tommy comes to call; + And talks so nice and witty, + And is so good to all. + + I'm afraid he's going to love her, + And marry her some day; + But if he only knew her, + He'd think another way. + + She's awful cross to brother, + When Tommy ain't around; + I don't believe a crosser girl + Could anywhere be found. + + She says I am a bother + When she has got a beau; + And act so very stupid + By telling all I know. + + I only told to Tommy + That she would lie in bed, + And let our tired mama + Do all the work instead. + + I told him not to love her + For she was awful cross; + And me and little brother + She always tried to "boss." + + I guess he's going to listen + And my advice he'll take. + He said she must do better + Or she would get the shake. + + I'm just a-going to tell her + To mind what she's about; + For soon I'll be as big as her + And then I'll cut her out. + + + + +NELLIE'S EASTER EGGS + + + Old Biddy Brown, a nice old hen, + Belonged to little Nell; + She hid her nest from all the rest, + And kept her secret well. + + And every morn, just like the sun, + She made her daily trip + Up in the hay her egg to lay, + And gave the rest the slip + + But one cold day old Biddy Brown + Concluded it was best, + That in the hay she'd better stay, + And take a little rest. + + They missed her from the chicken coop, + And from the barnyard pen; + And none could tell, not even Nell, + Just where to find that hen. + + The days went by, the weeks sped on, + And still she hid away; + But little Nell kept hunting well, + And found her in the hay. + + Now, Easter time was drawing nigh, + And Nell, in colors bright, + Was going to taint, with brush and paint, + Old Biddy's eggs so white. + + She took them from the poor old hen, + Who'd sat so long with care, + And in a tin she brought them in, + Which really was not fair. + + She dabbled with those pretty paints, + Till shells were lost to view; + Then with delight she viewed the sight + Of eggs, in red and blue. + + She put them by the kitchen stove, + And covered them up tight, + To keep them warm and free from harm, + And out of baby's sight. + + The next morn rang the Easter bells, + And Nell rose with a start; + Her playmates, some would surely come + To view her work of art. + + So proudly to the kitchen then, + With step so light and free, + With happy look her playmates took, + Those Easter eggs to see. + + But what a change came over Nell! + Had some one played her tricks? + To her surprise, before her eyes + Was a pan of downy chicks. + + + + +WHEN DOLLY WAS SICK + + + My doll got sick one summer day, + And then I had to stop my play. + + I tucked her in her little bed, + With burning cheeks and throbbing head. + + I knew that she was cutting teeth, + And that one thought gave me relief. + + But still I wondered as I had, + Why her poor head should ache so bad. + + She seemed so ill for one so young, + So I thought I'd have the doctor come. + + I sent for him to come--come quick, + For my dear Nell was very sick. + + Then when he came he shook his head, + And this is what the doctor said: + + "She has the measles or some fever; + But have no fear, I can relieve her. + + "I'll give her powders for her head, + But you must keep her close in bed. + + "I'll give her quinine made in pills, + And they will cure those dreadful chills. + + "But when your neighbors come to call, + Don't let them see your babe at all. + + "She must not talk, nor even smile; + So keep her quiet for a while. + + "Be careful what you give to eat, + Now don't give salads or cold meat. + + "Nor don't give biscuits that are warm, + For they will do your dolly harm. + + "But give her nicely buttered toast, + With veal, or lamb, or mutton roast." + + I watched beside her suffering bed, + And many were the tears I shed. + + But soon a change came o'er my Nell, + I saw that she was getting well. + + Oh, what a joy it was to me, + To know from pain my Nell was free! + + But she was very pale and thin, + With faded cheeks and pointed chin. + + Then came the doctor with his bills-- + So much for powders, so much for pills. + + I paid them all without a sigh, + And thanked him 'cause she did not die. + + + + +AUNTIE'S PARLOR + + + My auntie has a parlor grand, + That's furnished very fine, + With lots of pretty, fancy things, + That cost her many a dime. + + I like to peep into that room + Whenever I go there, + To see those pretty, fancy things, + And find out what they are. + + But auntie always watches me, + Just like a cat a mouse, + And says: "You are a mischief, Belle, + When you are in my house." + + There's bric-a-brac on the mantel-shelf, + And pictures on the wall, + And pretty, high-back easy-chairs + That spring up like a ball. + + There is a grand piano there + That must have cost her much; + But all I ever hear is this: + "Now, Belle, you must not touch." + + There is a lovely stand and stool, + And rugs upon the floor, + And vases in the corner too, + But--a lock is on the door. + + Now, what's a parlor good for, say? + I'd really like to know! + With doors and windows fastened tight, + And pretty things for show. + + I wish I owned that parlor grand, + And all those things so nice, + I'd let my kitty go in there + To watch for naughty mice. + + I'd tell the little girls I know + Who hadn't one so fine, + That they were always welcome guests + To come and play in mine. + + + + +OFF TO SCHOOL WE GO + + + In the morning when the sun + Does begin his daily run, + When the stars have gone to sleep, + And no longer brightly peep, + Then we take a morning dine; + And before the clock strikes nine, + Off to school, to school we go, + Some on time and some are slow. + + Some look pleasant, some look sour, + Some are whispering every hour; + Some are naughty, some are good, + Some, they study as they should; + Full of fun and full of play, + So they see us every day. + Off to school, to school we go, + Some on time and some are slow. + + Soon our lessons are all past, + And the day has gone at last; + Some, they learned them as they should, + Some, they did not get them good; + Some are always staying late + For mistakes upon their slate. + Home from school, from school we go, + Some on time and some are slow. + + Soon we girls will older grow, + Then we'll wish so much to know, + So to study we must try, + For our time is flitting by. + Days and weeks are passing fast, + And schooldays will soon be past, + So while off to school we go, + Let's be on time and never slow. + + + + +CLARABEL'S VALENTINE + + + "Now, who shall get my valentine?" + Thought little Clarabel; + "For I must send it to some friend + Who loves me very well." + + She thought of cousin Madaline, + A proud and haughty miss, + But changed her mind almost as soon, + For she would scoff at this. + + She thought of neighbor Bessie Brown, + But she was rich and fair, + And every year her valentines + Were more than one girl's share. + + And next she thought of classmates dear, + Then said their names all o'er; + But every year their valentines + Would number more and more. + + So who should get her valentine? + She thought and thought in vain; + At last she said: "I'll keep this one, + And none shall have the gain." + + Just then a little voice was heard + To whisper in her ear: + "There's many a girl and many a boy + Who will get none this year. + + "So, Clarabel, please think again + Of some poor children's plight, + Who never get a valentine + To make their sad hearts light." + + She heard that voice, and then she thought: + "I know what I shall do, + And where to send this valentine + And many others, too." + + She took her little money bank, + Where she had kept her dimes, + Then swiftly to the store she ran, + And bought more valentines. + + She sent them to the boys and girls + Whose pleasures were but few; + Then told her playmates what she'd done, + And then they tried it, too. + + So many were the valentines + That went their happy way, + And many were the girls and boys + That had a happy day. + + They thanked the postman o'er and o'er, + Those hapless little elves, + Because he brought them valentines + For their own little selves. + + And Clarabel was happy too, + And truly did believe + That giving unto others + Was more than to receive. + + + + +THANKSGIVING AT GRANDMA'S + + + 'Twas Thanksgiving on the farm, + And hurry everywhere; + For Grandma Brown got word from town, + The children would be there. + She sent an invitation + A week or two ahead, + To daughter Anna and daughter Hannah, + And this is what it said: + + "Now bring the children, every one, + And have a jolly time; + For we've our share, and some to spare, + So bring them all to dine. + And let them bring their relatives, + And each a playmate too, + So bring them all, both large and small, + We'll have enough for you." + + So Nell and Dell invited Bell + And little cousin Prue, + Then Bennie Mills asked Jennie Bills, + And also neighbor Sue: + Then neighbor Sue told brother Ralph, + And Ralph told cousin Nan, + Then cousin Nan asked playmate Sam, + And he told neighbor Dan. + + Grandma said to grandson Roy: + "Now bring your neighbor Ray." + So neighbor Ray and sister May + Invited cousin Jack; + Then cousin Jack told neighbor Mack, + And asked his playmate Tess; + Then cousin Lottie asked cousin Dottie, + And also sister Bess. + + Then sister Bess invited Richard, + And he invited Ned, + Then brother Ned invited Ed, + And also cousin Fred; + Then cousin Fred asked sister Ann, + And she invited Joe, + Then he sent word, so William heard, + To bring his sister Flo. + + Then sister Flo and her young beau + Invited playmate Tom; + They said to him: "Bring neighbor Tim + And also cousin Don. + Tell cousin Don to go along + And ask her neighbor Millie; + Then she will make her brother Jake + Invite his sweetheart Tillie." + + When grandma's tables were all spread + For little guests from town, + The happy crowd then shouted loud: + "Three cheers for Grandma Brown!" + They listened while dear grandpa then + Gave thanks for daily bread. + Then Will and Tim did both begin + And so did Tom and Ned. + + Then Bennie Mills and Jennie Bills + And little Don and Sue, + All waded in with eager vim + And so did Dan and Prue. + Then sister Bess and playmate Tess, + Ate much of poultry meats; + While Ralph and Nell and cousin Bell, + Ate many pickled beets. + + Then Roy and Ann and Dick and Joe, + Ate all of grandma's jam, + While Ed and Nan, Dell, Fred, and Sam, + Ate all the eggs and ham. + Then Ray and Millie, and May and Tillie, + And also brother Jake, + And Jack and Lottie, and Mack and Dottie, + Ate all the broiled steak. + + When all were through at dinner time, + There naught remained but crumbs; + For pretty Flo and her young beau, + Ate all the sugar plums. + Then grandma smiled when she looked round + And saw the happy set, + For she just knew, as grandmas do, + How hungry children get. + + When grandpa hauled the wagons out + To take them back to town, + They scrambled in, with childish din, + And cheered for Grandma Brown; + They cheered for grandpa loud and long, + And called him "Grandpa, dear," + He said to them: "Now, come again, + And dine with us next year." + + + + +DOLLY DAYS + + + My mama says that I'm too old + To play with dolls much more, + That I must lay them all away + For dolly days for me are o'er. + + But what I'll do, I do not know, + When they're all laid away; + I know I'll sigh and maybe cry, + When I've no doll with me to play. + + Then with them all put out of sight + The days will lonely be; + For when I'm mad, or when I'm sad, + There'll be no doll to comfort me. + + There's Maggie May, my eldest one, + The doll that was so fine, + Santa let her drop from the chimney top, + And caused a crooked spine. + + She's been a cripple ever since, + And such a fretful child, + She's cried and screamed until it seemed + I really should go wild. + + There's sweet Marie, a pretty doll, + With hair of golden hue, + With cheeks so bright and chin so white, + And eyes of heaven's blue. + + And Rosa Nell, another blond, + Whose temper is so mild, + That every one, both old and young, + Could love the pretty child. + + She's broke her nose, but what of that! + She always wears a smile, + She's at her play the livelong day, + And sings most all the while. + + There's Lilla Dale, with tangled hair, + Who's lain so long in bed, + When very small she had a fall, + That cracked her little head. + + She'll miss my care and I'll miss her + When she is laid away; + For many a time I've soothed her whine + Because she could not play. + + And Nellie Gray, the sweet brunette, + Whose hair was dark as night, + My heart will ache and maybe break, + When she's laid out of sight. + + She's lost an arm and both her legs, + And only has one curl; + But you may bet she's precious yet, + This dear old darky girl. + + But now I'm old; too old, they say,-- + I've entered in my teens; + But I'll look back o'er memory's track, + To happy doll-day dreams. + + There'll be no hours in years to come, + That have been like the past; + For dolly days and dolly plays + Were just too sweet to last. + + + + +THAT GIGGLE + + + When I arose to speak one day, + I quite forgot what I had to say. + I thought, and thought, and tried in vain + To bring it to my mind again, + And there I stood, with head downcast, + A-dreading what would come at last. + + The room grew dark, my heart grew sad, + I thought I surely would go mad; + I tried to speak, but not a word + Or e'en a whisper could be heard. + My limbs with palsy seemed to shake, + My heart with terror seemed to quake. + + I heard a giggle clear and loud + Go rippling through the waiting crowd. + I could no longer stand the strain, + For bursting seemed my heart and brain. + Then to my feelings I gave vent, + And weeping to my seat I went. + + + + +MARION'S LAMENT + + + I'm such a lonely little girl, + And play all by myself; + I feel just like a broken doll + That's laid by on the shelf. + + And when I'm tired of playing alone, + There's nothing else to do, + But wish I had a brother Joe, + Or little sister Sue. + + I think I'll write to Santa Claus + And say I'm lone and sad; + And if he'll bring a baby girl, + I'll be so very glad. + + I think that he will bring me one, + For Santa's good to me. + I'll tell him please to hang it on + My little Christmas tree. + + + + +WHEN I'M A BIG GIRL + + + I'll try to be good, + And do as I should, + I'll learn how to work + And never will shirk, + When I'm a big girl. + + I'll do with my might + Whatever is right, + I'll study at school + And obey each rule, + When I'm a big girl. + + With needle and yarn + My stockings I'll darn, + I'll comb my own tresses + And make my own dresses, + When I'm a big girl. + + I'll learn how to bake + Some very nice cake, + I'll make my own bed + And mind what ma said, + When I'm a big girl. + + I'll dust, and I'll sweep, + And my dollies I'll keep; + I'll stow them away + To look at some day, + When I'm a big girl. + + I'll lay away toys + For some other joys, + I'll never make noise + Like the great big boys, + When I'm a big girl. + + Now, had I more time + I'd tell you in rhyme + Some more that I'll do, + When I'm big like you. + + + + +WHAT THE BELLS SAID + + + One Sabbath morn in lovely June, + The old church bells rang out a tune. + + Unto the world they seemed to say: + "This is our little children's day. + + "Now will you listen to our call, + And come to hear the children small? + + "Their songs in voices, sweet and clear, + Unto their Maker you shall hear. + + "Their smiling faces are a sight, + That turns all darkness into light. + + "Their little speeches are so nice, + That you should hear at any price. + + "Their little songs in chorus sound + As though there were no evil 'round. + + "Their prayers so humble, sweet, and pure, + Will make you feel that heaven's sure. + + "Then come you people, one and all, + And learn the ways of children small. + + "And live again those childish days, + Before you learned the worldly ways. + + "'Twill bring you back those youthful joys, + Of winsome girls and manly boys. + + "'Twill give your soul an upward flight, + And bring your heaven just in sight." + + And then the bells rang off their tune, + That lovely Sabbath morn in June. + + To listen while the songs of love + Went to the Maker up above; + + And listen while a childish prayer, + Was breathed upon the holy air. + + + + +WHY? + + + I often sit and wonder why + It is not always day, + And why the sunshine and the light + Cannot forever stay. + + I often sit and wonder why + The birdies are so wild, + And what does make them fly away + From every little child. + + And why they always like to sing, + And never like us talk, + And why they always like to fly, + And never like us walk. + + Sometimes I sit and wonder too, + About my pussy cats, + Just why they did not have some wings + Like ugly little bats. + + My dolly is a mystery too, + And so I wonder why, + When I am washing dolly's face, + She does not pout and cry. + + And then it never seemed quite right + To have the world turn round; + It seems so strange we do not fall + Or tumble off the ground. + + There are so many other things + That don't look right to me; + I sometimes really don't believe + They're as they ought to be. + + + + +BECAUSE + + + Now what's the use of wondering + Why 'tis not always day? + For we must have the night to sleep + So we can rest from play. + + And there's the little birdies too, + It's all right they are wild; + For it never was intended + They should play with a child. + + I'd rather hear them singing sweet + Than hear them try to talk; + And rather see them flying high + Than see them try to walk. + + Then what would be the use of wings + Upon a pussy cat? + Because she could not catch a mouse + When flying like a bat. + + Then what good could a dolly do + To cry, or fret, or scream, + Because her mama's gentle hand + Was trying to wash her clean. + + And then I think it is all right + Because the world turns round; + For gravitation in the earth + Does keep us on the ground. + + So then, to me, this world of ours + Seems just as it should be; + And with it all I'm satisfied, + And hope it is with me. + + + + +HOW HAZEL KEPT HOUSE + + + "I'm going to be the housekeeper, + While you are gone away," + Said Hazel to her mama, + One lovely summer day; + "For I can tend the baby, + It's nothing more than play. + + "I'll play that I am mama + With lots of work to do; + And then I'll call on brother + To come and help me through + With dishes and the sweeping, + Like papa does help you." + + Then mama kissed her daughter, + And said a fond good-by; + But gently did remind her: + "Don't let the baby cry, + Don't burn the dinner pudding, + Don't boil the kettle dry." + + There were dishes to be washed, + And kitchen floor to sweep, + And soon the precious baby + To rock and sing to sleep; + And dinner to get ready, + And a watch on pudding keep. + + So busy was our Hazel + With dinner to prepare, + She did not notice baby + Was tired of her chair, + Nor that her helpful brother + Had run away somewhere. + + She went to stir the pudding, + But baby began to cry; + She had to stop and rock her, + And sing a lullaby; + But could not get her quiet, + No matter how she'd try. + + She called for helpful brother, + And thought he was around; + But no response was given, + Not one familiar sound; + For little helpful brother + Was nowhere to be found. + + The noon hour was approaching, + With dinner--not in sight, + Although our patient Hazel + Had worked with will and might + To have it cooked and ready, + And make the pudding right. + + When papa came at noon-time, + A hungry man was he, + But not a tempting morsel + For dinner could he see; + But poor discouraged Hazel + With baby on her knee. + + The table looked untidy, + The floor was yet unswept, + And naughty little brother,-- + Safe out of sight had kept, + While Hazel, with the baby, + Had set her down and wept. + + When mama came at evening + She heard her daughter say: + "O mama, take the baby, + I've had an awful day!" + And Hazel found that keeping house + Was something more than play. + + + + +DROPS OF HONEY + + + There was a little busy bee + That roamed a field all over; + At last he spied a blossom red + Upon a stem of clover. + + He lit upon that blossom red + And searched it through and through; + And found some drops of honey there + That sparkled like the dew. + + He took those drops of honey + And put them in his hive; + And when the cold, cold winter came + They kept the bee alive. + + + + +WHEN MY DOLLY WENT TO SCHOOL + + + When my dolly went to school + I bought her a slate and rule + With my only silver dime; + And I said to dolly dear, + "Now, my pretty, do you hear? + You must always be on time." + + But I told her not to worry, + Nor get into a flurry + If she happened to be late; + And what teacher has to say + She must every word obey, + And must always sit up straight. + + Then her little study book + And some other things she took, + With a bottle full of ink; + And a pen and blotter too, + With a tablet clean and new, + For to write her little think. + + But my dolly had a will + And she never would sit still, + So the teacher had to use a stick. + Then the boys would tease her so + Just because she didn't know + How to get her 'rifmatic. + + Soon my dolly grew so haughty + And some days she was so naughty + That she wouldn't mind a rule. + And she couldn't learn to spell, + Nor would get her grammar well, + So I thought I'd take her out of school. + + And I'd wait a year or two + Till my dolly older grew, + Then, perhaps, she'd try to learn. + But she promised to do better + So I did consent to let her + Go to school another term. + + + + +THREE LITTLE KITTENS + + + Three little kittens, + All sleek as a mouse, + Played hide-and-go-seek, + 'Round a honeybee's house. + + Three little kittens, + All sleek as a mouse, + Got stung most to death, + 'Round a honeybee's house. + + Three little kittens, + All sleek as a mouse, + Never played any more, + 'Round a honeybee's house. + + + + +THE SPIDER'S PARLOR + + + There was a cunning spider once + Who wove a tangled web; + A shining fly came passing by + And to the spider said: + + "What have you in your parlor, sir, + I wish you'd tell to me." + The spider said: "I wish instead + You'd step inside and see. + + "My parlor is a pretty place + Where you may sit and rest; + With cozy nooks and picture books, + I think mine is the best. + + "I've windows in my parlor, too, + All draped in woven lace; + And as you pass a pretty glass + Reflects a handsome face. + + "I've pictures on the mantelshelf + I purchased just of late; + The frames are fine and nicely shine + And all are up to date." + + The fly then crossed the threshold line + And never thought of harm; + The spider wise then blinked his eyes + And spun a little yarn. + + He said unto his victim fair: + "This is a pretty place; + So won't you fly to the window high + Where hangs the woven lace?" + + The fly flew to the window pane + Where spider lace was hung; + And ere he knew just what to do + A web was 'round him strung. + + He buzzed and hummed and fluttered there, + And struggled with his might. + The spider sly had caught the fly + And held him very tight. + + So let's not listen, like the fly, + To untrue tales that are told; + For we must mind we're sure to find + All glittering things aren't gold. + + Let's not be led to danger then + By a sinful, harmful guide; + But walk each day in the narrow way + And shun the one that's wide. + + + + +MOTHER GOOSE'S DINNER PARTY + + + Old Mother Goose + Rode in her caboose, + And invited her friends to dine; + And to each of them said, + As she popped out her head: + "Be sure to come at straight nine." + + To Old Mother Hubbard, + Who had a bare cupboard, + With nothing to eat or to sup, + She said: "Bring your dog Jack, + So you can carry back + Enough for to fill you both up." + + And to little Bopeep: + "You may bring all your sheep, + And their tails that were hung up to dry." + And to little Jack Horner, + Who sat in the corner, + She said: "I have made a plum pie." + + And to little Boy Blue: + "Bring your horn along too, + And play us a rollicking tune; + For the cat with the fiddle + Will play us 'Hi-diddle,' + While the cow jumps over the moon." + + And to little Tom Tucker, + Whose face wore a pucker, + Because he had nothing to eat, + She said: "Come to the party + And eat quite hearty, + Then your face will be pleas'nt and sweet." + + But of little Tom Green, + The boy who was mean, + She said she would surely leave out; + And would only invite + The boy who did right, + And he was that little John Trout. + + To the piper's son Tom, + She said: "Come along + And bring us a pig if you will," + Then poor simple Simon, + Who met the fat pieman, + She told he could eat to his fill. + + And to poor Jack and Jill, + Who fell down the hill, + And cut such a terrible caper: + "Be sure that you bring + A drink from the spring, + And some vinegar and brown paper." + + But to bad, bad Peter, + The great pumpkin eater, + She said she thought 'twould be well + To give his poor wife + A change in her life, + And let her come out of her shell. + + But poor Humpty-Dumpty! + He got such a bumpty, + When he fell way down from the wall, + That he went all to smash + With a terrible crash, + So she couldn't invite him at all. + + Then old Mother Goose + Thought 'twould be of no use + To invite the king and the queen; + For they lived so high + On their blackbird pie, + And with poor folks wouldn't be seen. + + But thought 'twould be right + To kindly invite + The woman who lived in the shoe. + So lent her caboose + To be of some use + In bringing the children there too. + + So all the folks came + To see the good dame, + And they all spent a jolly good day; + And said their good-byes, + With tears in their eyes, + When the wagons were rolling away. + + + + +OLIVE'S ADVICE + + + Let me tell you what to do + As this world you journey through. + + Give a smile to all you meet, + Keep your temper nice and sweet. + + Keep your faces bright and clean, + Never do a trick that's mean. + + Keep pure thoughts within your mind, + Never say a word unkind. + + When at home, or when at school + Please obey each given rule. + + Keep in mind your duty ever, + Don't neglect it once, no, never! + + Then you'll live a happy life, + Free from trouble, free from strife. + + + + +THE OLD AND THE NEW + + + The year has past and gone at last, + The parting gave us pain; + But though we sigh for one gone by, + 'Twill not return again. + + We can't recall, not one, not all + The years that we have known; + They came and went and each was spent, + With good and bad seeds sown. + + Then let's not whine nor e'en repine + For joys that might have been; + But with brave heart let each take part + To help his fellow-men. + + We must not grieve; but still believe + Time will soon brighter be; + Though we've not met with greatness yet, + There's hopes for you and me. + + We'll let the past that's gone at last, + Be lost on memory's track; + We'll live no more the old year o'er, + Nor ever wish it back. + + The new year's come and now begun, + So ring, ye merry chimes; + Peal one loud strain of sweet refrain, + And bring us better times. + + Let's greet the year with words of cheer, + And new resolves we'll make; + We'll strive with might to do the right, + And duty never shake. + + With pages turned and wisdom learned + By mishaps in life's dream; + We'll turn one new for me and you, + And keep it white and clean. + + We'll keep it well that it may tell + Our vows were not in vain; + And may each one, when this year's done, + Be raised to higher plane. + + + + +PA'S WAYS + + + My pa, he's got the funniest ways + Of any man whatever I saw! + He's different than ma. + He never thinks same as she does; + But they alus seem to git 'long some way + 'Caus ma says fussin' don't pay. + + But pa don't b'lieve in women votin'; + En he says that ma can't, + En then he says that she shan't! + He says he'd be 'shamed of her; + En says he'd git divorce. + En pa means what he says o' course. + + Pa likes to go to church sometimes; + But he don't b'long to any + 'Caus there's so awful many, + En nobody knows which one's right. + He says the preachers don't know + Where the folks is goin' to go. + + 'Caus they's never been there-- + He means the place they's preach for, + What they calls the golden shore. + But he says they's doin' lots o' good + En he don't mind givin' 'm money. + En ma says that's what's funny! + + But he never minds what she says, + He says woman can't mind her biz! + En I guess he's right, pa is. + But ma b'lieves in woman's rights; + En says a woman kin talk en do, + En that's what she's goin' to. + + Pa says if she couldn't talk she'd die! + En he wants her to live long, + So lets her talk on, en on. + But pa can eat more'n she can; + En he likes everything she bakes + Her pies, en pudins, en cakes. + + En it keeps her bakin' lots it does. + She says she wishes he wouldn't eat s' much + Of pies, en cakes, en pudins, en such. + He says her cookin's good too, + En it jest gives him a appitite! + Oh, my! pa eats a awful sight. + + But he don't care anything 'bout fashion; + He says his is all his own; + En wishes folks 'uld let him 'lone! + He says if folks 'uld pay ther bills + They couldn't wear so much style, + En go to picnics all the while. + + He's gittin' older every day, pa is. + En ma says he's funnier, too, + En she don't know what she'll do! + But she never crosses him now; + 'Caus she says it never pays + Fer pa--well them's pa's ways. + + + + +THE SPIDER AND THE BEE + + + "Will you walk into my parlor?" + Said a spider to a bee, + "'Tis the prettiest little parlor + That ever you did see." + + "No: I thank you, Mr. Spider," + Said the busy, humming bee, + "There's no honey in your parlor, + So it's not the place for me." + + + + +KITTY BELL + + + I've a story that I'll tell + 'Bout a puss named Kitty Bell, + How she played and romped one day, + In a _very shocking_ way. + + And what happened to her then + Just because she'd naughty been; + For she wouldn't mind a word, + Not a single one she heard. + + So she had to go to bed + With a dreadful aching head! + An' she cried an awful lot, + 'Caus her head was burning hot. + + But I bound an' tied it up, + Gave her tea in her new cup, + Shook her pillow till 'twas light, + Then slept kitty all the night. + + In the morning when she woke + Not a single word she spoke; + But she mewed, "I'm hungry ma," + Then she licked her little paw, + + Washed her face as kittens do, + Till it looked as clean as new; + Soon her mama brought a mouse, + That she caught back of the house. + + This she gave to Kitty Bell; + An' poor kitty then got well, + Ate it up an' ran to play + In a _very quiet_ way. + + + + +THE BIRDS' PARTY + + + The birds all held a party + One lovely day in June; + When hearts were light and cheery + And voices were in tune. + + They came in pairs from woodlands, + From orchards, and from glen, + The robin, rook, and bluebird, + The swallow, cuckoo, wren, + + Sweet bobolink and sparrow, + The crow and pretty jay, + The whip-poor-will and linnet, + All came that happy day. + + The meadow lark and blackbird, + The tiny chickadee, + The chippy bird and nightingale, + All came the sights to see. + + The catbird and canary, + The topknot and the thrush, + The oriole and turtledove, + All came to join the rush. + + And each one brought a basket + With something good to eat; + The robins brought some cherries, + The crows each brought some meat. + + The sparrows brought some pudding, + The blackbird brought some corn, + The topknot brought a June plum, + The chickadee a horn. + + The bluebird brought a horsefly, + The meadow lark a bug, + The linnet brought a cricket, + The turtledove a slug. + + The swallow brought a beetle, + The wren a little ant, + The cuckoo brought a blossom, + From off a mustard plant. + + The catbird brought some berries, + The thrush his choice of weeds, + The canary and the rest, + Brought baskets full of seeds. + + They gathered in the green wood, + To spread their dinner fine; + Then each one took his sweetheart, + And went with her to dine. + + The feast was soon all over, + And each one with his mate + Danced to the horn of chickadee, + Until the hour was late. + + Then all the birdies parted, + And each one took to flight; + But every bird was happy + When he bade his love good-night. + + + + +JANUARY + + + With merry chimes and merry times + We'll greet the new year bright; + We'll turn a page that's new in age + And try to keep it white. + + We'll look ahead and never dread + The wind in all his whirls, + For winter days and winter plays + Are good for boys and girls. + + The wind will blow and drift the snow + O'er lakes and frozen rills; + But what care we? we'll happy be + A-coasting down the hills! + + We'll build our forts for winter sports, + And make a man of snow; + And then we'll skate upon the lake, + And let the cold wind blow. + + We like the ice and think it nice, + And wish 'twould always tarry; + Of all the year we hold most dear + The month of January. + + + + +FEBRUARY + + + The jolly month of winter time + Has called around once more; + And Mr. Ground-hog will be out + To tell us winter is not o'er. + + He'll walk about in pig-ship style, + And, ere the day is done, + He'll freeze his nose and chill his toes + And wish he hadn't come. + + Then soon will come old Valentine + With lots of fun to see; + He'll have a face that looks like you, + And one that looks like me. + + And next will come a birthday + Of one who once was great-- + We'll dance and shout and all turn out + And help to celebrate + + The birth of one who never lied, + And thus he lived until he died-- + George Washington. + + + + +MARCH + + + The month of March has come again + With blowing, snowing blast; + The winds are piercing in their search, + But come too late to last. + + But as the month will onward march, + The winds will warmer grow; + Until 'tis seen the earth is green + And vanished has the snow. + + Then comes the sweetest time of all, + When sap flows up the tree; + When sugar-makers busy are + A-making cakes for me. + + For I'm the girl who likes the cakes + Made from that sugar sweet-- + They're better far than all the gum + That's chewed upon the street. + + This is the time I like so well + And wish 'twere always here. + Of all the months that call around + I think March sweetest of the year. + + + + +APRIL + + + The welcome month of April, + With sunshine and with showers, + Sets all the buds to swelling + And brings the early flowers. + + And nature now has wakened + From her long and wintry sleep, + And dandelions are peeping + In the grasses at our feet. + + The bullfrog loud is calling + From the pond or running stream, + And the nesting birds are cooing + In their early "love's young dream." + + The hop-toad in the cellar + Thinks he'll take a look without, + And old shanghi on the fence + Crows and flops his wings about. + + And I am just as happy + As the butterfly or bee, + For the showery month of April + Is a welcome month to me. + + + + +MAY + + + The sweetest time of all the year + Is when the month of May draws near. + The air is sweet with rich perfume + That comes from apple-trees in bloom. + + The peach-tree sheds its fragrance too, + And sips alike its share of dew. + The lilac blooms and shows its right + To make this month a flowery sight. + + The pansy lifts her welcome face + From out her long-leaved hiding-place. + The violet blossoms as of old + And shows her color true as gold. + + The brooks they ripple as they go + From brink to brink, in ceaseless flow. + The lark sails high on upward wing-- + All Nature's glad to greet the spring. + + The wild flowers blossom in the wood, + And all proclaim that God is good. + Of all the months I'd have to stay + It is the flowery month of May. + + + + +JUNE + + + The month of June brings roses sweet, + And daisies blooming at our feet; + When Nature sings her sweetest tune, + 'Tis in the balmy month of June. + + And glad vacation June will bring, + Then old school bells will cease to ring, + But wedding bells their sweet refrain + Will ring and ring out just the same. + + Now lilies white upon the stream, + In early morning will be seen; + And cherries ripe upon the tree + Are tempting to the birds and me. + + So robin hops from limb to limb, + And seems to think they're all for him; + And gets his share, and even more, + Before the cherry time is o'er. + + This is the month that suits me best, + And I love it better than all the rest; + I'd always sing the same gay tune, + If all the months were just like June. + + + +TRANSCRIBER'S NOTES: + + + Text in italics is surrounded by underscores: _italics_. + + Inconsistencies in spelling and hyphenation have been retained from the + original. + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Smiles, by Alice Lewis Richards + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 40576 *** |