And in the churchyard cottage, I "You say that two at Conway dwell, Then did the little maid reply- "You run about, my little maid, "Their graves are green, they may be seen," The little maid replied; "Twelve steps or more from my mother's door, And they are side by side. "My stockings there I often knit, ; My kerchief there I hem I sit and sing to them. "And often after sunset, sir, When it is light and fair, WE ARE SEVEN. 111 I take my little porringer, "The first that died was sister Jane; Till GoD released her of her pain; "So in the churchyard she was laid; "And when the ground was white with snow, My brother John was forced to go- "How many are you, then," said I, "But they are dead: those two are dead! Their spirits are in heaven! "T was throwing words away; for still The little maid would have her will, And said, "Nay, we are seven!" WORDSWORTH. FATHER IS COMING. THE clock is on the stroke of six, Sweep up the hearth, and stir the fire, The wild night wind is blowing cold, 'Tis dreary crossing o'er the wold. He's crossing o'er the wold apace, For father's heart is stout and true, He makes all toil, all hardship light: Would all men were the same: So ready to be pleased, so kind, Folks need not be unkind, austere, Nay, do not close the shutters, child; For far along the lane The little window looks, and he Can see it shining plain. FATHER IS COMING. I've heard him say he loves to mark And we 'll do all that father likes; His wishes are so few; Would they were more! that Some wish of his I knew: I'm sure it makes a happy day, every I know he's coming by this sign, hour See how he laughs, and crows, and stares— His father's self in face and limb And father's heart is strong in him. Hark! hark! I hear his footstep now; He's through the garden gate; Run, little Bess, and ope the door, And do not let him wait: Shout, baby, shout! and clap your hands, 113 MARY HOWITT. TRY, TRY AGAIN. "T is a lesson you should heed- If at first you do n't succeed, Then your courage should appear, You will conquer, never fear: Once, or twice, though you should fail, If you would, at last, prevail, Try, try again; If we strive, 't is no disgrace, Though we may not win the race; What should you do in the case? If you find your task is hard, Time will bring you your reward; Try, try again; All that other folks can do, Why, with patience, should not you? Only keep this rule in view TRY, TRY AGAIN. |