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Front Cover | |
Front Matter | |
Title Page | |
Table of Contents | |
The Brownies at school | |
The Brownies ride | |
The Brownies on skates | |
The Brownies on bicycles | |
The Brownies at lawn-tennis | |
The Brownies' good work | |
The Brownies at the gymnasium | |
The Brownies' feast | |
The Brownies tobogganing | |
The Brownies' balloon | |
The Brownies canoeing | |
The Brownies in the menagerie | |
The Brownies' circus | |
The Brownies at baseball | |
The Brownies and the bees | |
The Brownies on roller skates | |
The Brownies at the seaside | |
The Brownies and the spinning-... | |
The Brownies' voyage | |
The Brownies' return | |
The Brownies' singing-school | |
The Brownies' friendly turn | |
The Brownies' Fourth of July | |
The Brownies in the toy-shop | |
Back Cover | |
Spine |
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Front Cover
Page i Page ii Front Matter Page iii Page iv Title Page Page v Page vi Page vii Page viii Table of Contents Page ix Contents 2 Page xi Table of Contents 4 The Brownies at school Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 The Brownies ride Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 The Brownies on skates Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 The Brownies on bicycles Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 The Brownies at lawn-tennis Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 The Brownies' good work Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 The Brownies at the gymnasium Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 The Brownies' feast Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 The Brownies tobogganing Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 The Brownies' balloon Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 The Brownies canoeing Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 The Brownies in the menagerie Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 The Brownies' circus Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76 Page 77 The Brownies at baseball Page 78 Page 79 Page 80 Page 81 Page 82 The Brownies and the bees Page 83 Page 84 Page 85 Page 86 Page 87 Page 88 The Brownies on roller skates Page 89 Page 90 Page 91 Page 92 Page 93 The Brownies at the seaside Page 94 Page 95 Page 96 Page 97 Page 98 Page 99 Page 100 The Brownies and the spinning-wheel Page 101 Page 102 Page 103 Page 104 Page 105 Page 106 Page 107 The Brownies' voyage Page 108 Page 109 Page 110 Page 111 Page 112 Page 113 The Brownies' return Page 114 Page 115 Page 116 Page 117 Page 118 Page 119 The Brownies' singing-school Page 120 Page 121 Page 122 Page 123 Page 124 Page 125 The Brownies' friendly turn Page 126 Page 127 Page 128 Page 129 Page 130 Page 131 The Brownies' Fourth of July Page 132 Page 133 Page 134 Page 135 Page 136 Page 137 The Brownies in the toy-shop Page 138 Page 139 Page 140 Page 141 Page 142 Page 143 Page 144 Back Cover Page 145 Page 146 Spine Page 147 |
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Via,.-..- R! A OeaNl iE"'% At igi xr L.__4 UU i.:. K U ,=-6 t O -A The Baldwin Library Udmvcnity of hR nrni& "eSie'Md 6AqE RO CAJA 1 Cd9lL \ WIGE I r ^(toL ----- * THE BROWNIES: THEIR BOOK BY PALMER COX PUBLISHED BY THE CENTURY CO. NEW-YORK Copyright, 1887, by THE CENTURY CO. o -'n 'BROWNIES, like fairies and goblins, are imaginary little sprites, who are supposed to delight in harmless pranks and helpful deeds. They work and sport while weary households sleep, and never allow themselves to be seen by mortal eyes. vii cS CONTENTS. I THE BROWNIE AT. SCHOOL TmH BlowN~ES' REID THE BROWNS ON SKATES THE BROWIES ON BICYCLES . THE BROWNIE AT LAWN-TENIS BROWNIES' GOOD WoRK PAGE . 1 t~sr r r P -r= THE BROWNmES AT THE GyTNASIUM THE BROwNIES' FEAST THE BROWNIES TOBOGGANING THE BRowNIs' BAIAOON THE BROWNIES CANOEING THE BROWNIES IN THE MENAGERIE THE BROWNIES' CIRus THE BROWNIES AT BASE-BALL THE BROWNIES AND THE BEES THE BROWNIES ON ROLLER SxATE PAGE 36 .62 68 AI THE BROWNS AT THE SEASIDE SPINNING-WHEEL THE BROWNIES' BROWNIES RETURN THE BROWNIES' SINGING-SCHOOL THE BROWNIES' 90 FRIENDLY TURN THE BROWNIES' FOURTH OF JULY THE BROWNIES IN THE TOY-SHOP THE .108 114 . 120 126 132 138 .---i, THE BROWNIES AT SCHOOL. S Brownies rambled 'round one night, S A country schoolhouse came in sight; iiF And there they paused awhile to speak About the place, where through the week The scholars came, with smile or whine, Each morning at the stroke of nine. "This is," said one, the place, indeed, Where children come to write and read. 'T is here, through rules and rods to suit, f The young idea learns to shoot; And here the idler with a grin In nearest neighbor- pokes the pin, Or sighs to break his scribbled slate And spring at once to man's estate. How oft from shades of yonder grove / I 've viewed at eve the shouting drove As from the door they crowding broke, Like oxen from beneath the yoke." i Another said: "The teacher's chair, The ruler, pen, and birch are there; The blackboard hangs against the wall; The slate 's at hand, the books and all. We might go in to read and write And master sums like scholars bright." N, -j "I '1l play," cried one, "the teacher's part; I know some lessons quite by heart, And every section of the land To me is plain as open hand." "With all respect, my friend, to you," Another said, "that would not do. .'L You 're hardly fitted, sir, to rule; Your place should be the dunce's stool. You 're not with. great endowments blessed; Besides, your temper 's not the best, And those who train the budding mind Should own a disposition kind. The rod looks better on the tree Than resting by the master's knee; I'll be the teacher, if you please; I know the rivers, lakes, and seas, And, like a banker's clerk, can throw The figures nimbly in a row. I have the patience, love, and grace, So requisite in such a case." Now some bent o'er a slate or book, And some at blackboards station took. They clustered 'round the globe with zeal, And kept it turning like a wheel. r t Said one, I 've often The world is rounder And here, indeed, we With both the poles With latitudes and All measured out on Another said, "I thought The world from Maine to Or could, without a guide, My way from Cork to Puget But here so many things ' On sundry points, I blush I 've been a thousand miles "'T is like an egg," another "A little longer than it 's wide, With islands scattered through the s( Where savages may live at ease; heard it said, than your head, find it true. at once in view, each degree land and sea." I knew S Timbuctoo, have found Sound; I find ,. to say, astray." T cried, And buried up in Polar snows You find the hardy Eskimos; S While here and there some scorching spots 1 Are set apart for Hottentots. And see the rivers small and great, SThat drain a province or a state; The name and shape of every nation; -_ Their faith, extent, and population; And whether governed by a King, A President, or council ring." 3y. While some with such expressions bold Surveyed the globe as 'round it rolled, Still others turned to ink and pen, And, spreading like a brooding hen, They scrawled a page to show the band Their special "style," or "business hand." The teacher had enough to do, To act his part to nature true: He lectured well the infant squad, SHe rapped the desk and shook the rod, And stood the dunce upon the stool, A laughing-stock to all the school- But frequent changes please the crowd, So lengthy reign was not allowed; And when one master had his hour, Another took the rod of power; And thus they changed to suit the case, Till many filled the honored place. So taken up was every mind With fun and study well combined, 1* 5 They noticed not the hours depart, Until the sun commenced to dart A sheaf of lances, long and bright, Above the distant mountain height; Then from the schoolroom, in a heap, They jumped and tumbled, twenty deep, In eager haste to disappear In deepest shades of forest siear. 6 When next the children gathered there, With wondering faces fresh and fair, It took an hour of morning prime, According to the teacher's time, To get the books in place once more, And order to the room restore. So great had been the haste to hide, The windows were left open wide; And scholars knew, without a doubt, That Brownies had been thereabout. L THE BROWNIES' RIDE. E night a cunning Brownie band SWas roaming through a farmer's land, And while the rogues went prying 'rOund, The farmer's mare at rest they found; And peeping through the stable-door, They saw the harness that she wore. .The sight was tempting to the eye, For there the cart was standing nigh. "That mare," said one, "deserves her feed-- Believe me, she's no common breed; Her grit is good: I 've seen her dash Up yonder slope without the lash, Until her load -a ton of hay - Went bouncing in beside the bay. In this same cart, old Farmer Gill Takes all his corn and wheat to mill; It must be strong, though rude and rough It runs on wheels, and that 's enough." Now, Brownies seldom idle stand When there 's a chance for fun at hand. 8 So plans were laid without delay; The mare was dragged from oats and hay, The harness from the peg they drew, And every one to action flew. It was a sight one should behold To see them working, young and old; Two wrinkled elves, like leather browned, Whose beards descended near the ground, Along with youngsters did their best With all the ardor of the rest. While some prepared a rein or trace, Another slid the bit in place; More buckled bands with all their might, Or drew the harness close and tight. When every strap a buckle found, And every part was safe and sound, Then 'round the cart the Brownies flew,- The hardest task was yet to do. It often puzzles bearded men, ' Though o'er and o'er performed again. Some held the shafts to steer them straight, More did their best to balance weight, While others showed both strength and art In backing Mag into the cart. At length the heavy job was done, And horse and cart moved off as one. Now down the road the gentle steed Was forced to trot at greatest speed. A merrier crowd than journeyed there Was never seen at Dublin Fair. Some found a seat, while others stood, Or hung behind as best they could; While many, strung along, astride, Upon the mare enjoyed the ride. ' The night was dark, the lucky elves r J Had all the turnpike to themselves. ( No surly keeper barred the way, ni I HFor use of road demanding pay, SNor were they startled by the cry iI Of robbers shouting, "Stand or die !" S* Across the bridge and up the hill SAnd through the woods to Warren's mill,- "" A lengthy ride, ten miles at least,- f/ L^ r Without a rest they drove the beast, And then were loath enough to rein Old Mag around for home again. 11 Nor was the speed, returning, slow; The mare was more inclined to go, .-. .= = Because the feed of oats and hay Unfinished in her manger lay. So through the yard she wheeled her load As briskly as she took the road. S--" No time remained to then undo S-_ The many straps which tight they drew, For in the east the reddening sky .--- C" Gave warning that the sun was nigh. 12 d The halter rope was quickly wound About the nearest post they found; Then off they scam- < pered, left and right, And disappeared at l once from sight. When Farmer Gill that morning fair Came out and viewed his jaded mare, I may not here in verse repeat His exclamations all complete. He gnashed his teeth, and glared around, And struck his fists, and stamped the ground, And chased the dog across the farm, Because it failed to give alarm. "I 'd give a stack of hay," he cried, "To catch the rogue who stole the ride!" But still awry suspicion flew,- Who stole the ride he never knew. ^ -' -' THE BROWNIES ON SKATES. #O NE night, when the cold moon hung low And winter wrapped the world in snow And bridged the streams in wood and field With ice as smooth as shining shield, _ Some skaters swept in graceful style '- The glistening surface, 'M '" file on file. : For hours the Brownies - viewed the show, -3 _ Commenting on the groups below; C Said one: "That pleasure might be ours - S We have the feet and motive powers; No mortal need us Brownies teach, If skates were but within our reach." Another answered: "Then, my friend, .To hear my plan let all attend. I have a building in my mind That we within an hour can find. Three golden balls hang by the door, Like oranges from Cuba's shore; Behind the dusty counter stands A native of queer, far-off lands; The place is filled with various things, From baby-carts to banjo-strings; Here hangs a gun without a lock Some Pilgrim bore to Plymouth rock; And there a pair of goggles lie, That saw the red-coats marching by; While piles of club and rocker skates Of every shape the buyer waits! Though second-hand, I 'm sure they'll do, And serve our wants as well as new. That place we 'll enter as we may, To-morrow night, and bear away A pair, the. best that come to hand, For every member of the band." At once, the enterprise so bold Received support from young and old. A place to muster near the town, And meeting hour they noted down; -- And then retiring for the night, They soon were lost to sound and sight. 15 When evening next her visit paid To fold the earth in robes of shade, From out the woods --e aIrss the mead i- The Brownies gat.h- S ered as agreed, To venture boldly 9A,~ i .. and p)ro(.ure The skates that would their fun insure. As mice can get to cake and cheese Without a key whenever they please, So, cunning Brownies can proceed And help themselves to what they need. For bolts and bars they little care If but a nail is wanting there! Or, failing this, with ease descend Like Santa Claus and gain their end. As children to the windows fly At news of Jumbo passing by, So rushed the eager band away To fields of ice without delay. 2* 17 * Though far too large- at heel and toe, The skates were somehow made to go. But. out behind and out before, Like spurs, they stuck a span or more, Alike afflicting foe and friend In bringing journeys to an end. SThey had their slips and sudden spreads, Where heels flew higher than their heads, As people do, however nice, When venturing first upon the ice. But soon they learned to curve and wheel 'ja And cut fine scrolls with scoring steel, To race in clusters to and fro, To jump and turn and backward go, Until a rest on bed so cool, Was more the wonder than the rule. But from the lake they all withdrew Some hours before the night was through, And hastened back with lively feet Through narrow lane and silent street, Until they reached the broker's door With every skate that left the store. And, ere the first faint gleam of day, The skates were 2p safely stowed away; Of their brief ab- sence not a trace Was left within the dusty place. Sk6 THE BROWNIES ON BICYCLES. NE evening Brownies, peeping down SFrom bluffs that overlooked the town, Saw wheelmen passing to and fro Upon the boulevard below. S It seems," said one, Te el "an easy trick, - The wheel goes 'round so smooth and quick; . You simply sit and work your feet. And glide with grace along the street. The pleasure would be fine indeed If we could thus in line proceed." "Last night," another answer made, "As by the river's bank I strayed, Where here and there a building stands, And town and country-side join hands, Before me stood a massive wall With engine-rooms and chimneys tall. "To scale the place a way I found, And, creeping in, looked all around; There bicycles of every grade Are manufactured for the trade; Some made for baby hands to guide, And some for older folk to ride. 20 "Though built to keep intruders out, With shutters thick and casings stout, I noticed twenty ways or more, By roof, by window, wall and door, Where we, by exercising skill, May travel in and out at will." Another spoke, in nowise slow To catch at pleasures as they go, And said, "Why let another day Come creeping in to drag away? Let's active measures now employ To seize at once the promised joy. On bicycles quick let us ride, While yet our wants may be supplied." So when the town grew hushed and still, The Brownies ventured down the hill, And soon the bandowas drawing nigh The building with the chim- neys high. When people d lock their doors at night, And double-bolt them left and right, And think through patents, new and old, To leave the burglars in the cold, 21 The cunning Brownies smile to see The springing bolt and turning key; For well they know if fancy leads Their band to venture daring deeds, The miser's gold, the mer- chant's ware To them is open as the air. , , i i n I I [ 1 Not long could door or windows stand Fast locked before the Brownie band; And soon the bicycles they sought From every room and bench were brought. 22 The rogues ere long began to show As many colors as the bow; For paint and varnish lately spread Besmeared them all from foot to head. Some turned to jay-birds in a minute, And some as quick might shame the linnet; While more with crimson-tinted breast Seemed fitted for the robin's nest. But whether red or green or blue, The work on hand was hurried through; They took the wheels from blacksmith fires, Though wanting bolts and even tires, And rigged the parts with skill and speed To answer well their pressing need. And soon, enough were made complete To give the greater part a seat, And let the rest- through cunning find Some way of hanging on behind. And then no spurt along the road, Or 'round the yard their courage showed, But twenty times a -measured mile They whirled away in single file, Or bunched together in a crowd If width of road or skill allowed. At times, while rolling down the grade, Collisions some confusion made, For every member of the band, At steering wished to try his hand; Though some, perhaps, were not 'designed For labor of that special kind. But Brownies are the folk to bear Misfortunes with unruffled air; So on through rough and smooth they spun Until the turning-point was won. Then back they wheeled with every spoke, An hour before the thrush awoke. --_ - - .,L 7, -, . . .' +,, TIE BROWNIES AT LAWN-TENNIS. IbNE evening as the woods grew dark, The Brownies wandered through a park, And soon a building, quaint and small, Appeared to draw the gaze of all. Said one: This place contains, no doubt, The tools of workmen hereabout." Another said i "You're quite astray, The workmen's tools are miles away; Within this building may be found The fixtures for the tennis ground. A meadow near, both long and wide, For half the year is set aside, And marked with many a square and court, For those who love the royal sport. On afternoons assembled there, The active men and maidens fair Keep up the game until the day Has faded into evening gray." "In other lands than those we tread, I played the game," another said, "And proved my skill and muscle stout, As server' and as 'striker-out.' 25 The lock that hangs before us there Bears witness to the keeper's care, And tramps or burglars might go by, If such a sign should meet the eye. But we, who laugh at locks or law Designed to keep man- kind in awe, cautious mind, But all the same an en- trance find." .. //7 CJI Ere long, the path that lay between The building and the-meadow green, Was crowded with the bustling throng, All bearing implements along; Some lugging stakes or racket sets, And others buried up. in nets. To set the posts and mark the ground The proper size and shape around, 27 With service-line and line of base, And courts, both left and right, in place, Was work that caused but slight delay; And soon the sport was under way. And then a strange and stirring scene Was pictured out upon the green. Some watched the game and noted well Where this or that one would excel. *8~^bk~ And shouts and calls that filled the air Proved even-handed playing there. With anxious looks some kept the score, And shouted "'vantage "game all!" or To some, ".love, forty! "-" deuce !" to more. But when deuce set!" the scorer cried, Applause would ring on every side. At times so hot the contest grew, Established laws aside they threw, And in the game where four should stand, At least a dozen took a hand. Some tangled in the netting lay And some from base-lines strayed away. Some hit the ball when out of place Or scrambled through unlawful space. But still no game was forced to halt Because of this or greater fault. 28 - .A: , And there they sported on the lawn Until the ruddy streaks of dawn Gave warning that the day was near, And Brownies all must disappear. 3* 29 THE BROWNIES' GOOD WORK. ONE time, while Brownies passed around An honest farmer's piece of ground, They paused to view the garden fair And fields of grain that needed care. "My friends," said one who often spoke -' About the ways of human folk, "Now here 's a case in point, I claim, - -_-_--_- Where neighbors scarce deserve the name: This farmer on his back is laid --- With broken ribs and shoulder-blade, Received, I hear, some weeks ago; While at the village here below, He checked a 46 running team, S :::A] to save Some children from an early grave. Now overripe his harvest 1111Vstands In waiting for the reaper's hands; The piece of wheat we lately passed pIs shelling out at every blast; Those pumpkins in that corner plot Begin to show the signs of rot; The mold has fastened on their skin, The ripest ones are caving in, And soon the pig in yonder sty With scornful grunt would pass (' them by. His Early Rose potatoes there Are much in need of light and air; The turnip withers where it lies, The beet and carrot want to rise. 'Oh, pull us up!' they seem to cry To every one that passes by; 'The frost will finish our repose, The grubs are working at our toes; Unless you come and save us soon, We 'll not be worth a picayune!' The corn is breaking '0 from the stalk, The hens around the hill can walk, And with their ever\ ready bill May pick the ker- nels at their will. His neighbors are a -- sordid crowd, Who 've such a shameful waste allowed; So wrapped in self some men can be, Beyond their purse they seldom see; 'T is left for us to play the friend And here a helping hand extend. But as the wakeful chanticleer Is crowing in the stable near, Too little of the present night Is left to set the matter right. "To-morrow eve, at that dark hour When birds grow still in leafy bower And bats forsake the ruined pile To exercise their wings awhile, In yonder shady grove we 'll meet, With all our active force complete, Prepared to give this farmer aid With basket, barrel, hook, and spade. But, ere we part, one caution more: Let some invade a druggist's store, And bring along a coated pill; We '11 dose the dog to keep him still. For barking dogs, however kind, Can oft disturb a Brownie's mind." -When next the bat of evening flew, And drowsy things of day withdrew, When beetles droned across the lea, And turkeys sought the safest tree To form aloft a social row And criticise the fox below,- Then cunning Brownies might be seen Advancing from the forest green; Now jumping Now crawling Now keeping Now "cutting Some bearing Some pushing While others, Seemed eager fences, as they ran, through (a safer plan); to the roads awhile, corners," country style; hoes, and baskets more, barrows on before, swinging sickles bright, for the grain in sight. But in advance of all the throng Three daring Brownies moved along, Whose duty was to venture close And give the barking dog his dose. 33 Now soon the work was under way, Each chose the part he was to play: While some who handled hoes the best Brought "Early Roses" from their nest, '^ To turnip-tops some laid their hands, /. More plied the hook, or twisted bands. And soon the sheaves lay piled around, Like heroes on disputed ground. S ,. Now let the eye turn where it might, SI' A pleasing prospect was in sight; For garden ground or larger field Alike a busy crowd revealed: Some pulling carrots from. their bed, Some bearing burdens on their head, Or working at a fever heat While prying out a monster beet. Now here two heavy loads have met, And there a barrow has upset, While workers every effort strain The rolling pumpkins to regain; And long before the stars with- drew, S. The crop was safe, the work S.was through. SIn shocks the corn, secure and '- ~ .- good, S Now like a Sioux encampment stood; The wheat was safely stowed -- away; In bins the "Early Roses" lay, T" ~- .- While carrots, tur- .;. "-.. nips, beets, and all Received attention, great and small. ,_l -- When morning dawn- I I ed, no sight or sound C,,_ Of friendly Brownies -- could be found; T 'And when at last old -Towser broke The spell, and from his. slumber woke, He rushed around, be- lieving still Some mischief lay be- hind the pill. But though the fields looked bare and strange, "His mind could hardly grasp the change. And when the farmer learned at morn That safe from harm were wheat and corn, That all his barley, oats, and rye Were in the barn, secure and dry, That carrots, beets, and turnips round Were safely taken from the ground, The honest farmer thought, of course, His neighbors had turned out in force While helpless on the bed he lay, And kindly stowed his crop away. 35 But when he thanked them for their aid, And hoped they yet might be repaid S For acting such a friendly part, His words appeared to pierce each heart; For well they knew that other hands Than theirs had laid his grain in bands, That other backs had bent in toil To save the products of the soil. And then they felt as such folk will Who fail to nobly act, until More earnest helpers, stepping in, Do all the praise and honor win. THE BROWNIES AT THE GYMNASIUM. THE Brownies once, while roaming 'round, By chance approached a college ground; And, as they skirmished every side, A large gymnasium they espied. Their eyes grew bright as they surveyed The means for exercise displayed. The club, the weight, the hanging ring, The horizontal bar, and swing, The boxing-gloves that please the heart Of him who loves the manly art, All brought expres- sions of delight, As one by one they came in sight. The time was short, and words were few That named the work for each to do. Their mystic art, as may be found On pages now in volumes bound, Was quite enough to bear them in Through walls of wood and roofs of tin. No hasp can hold, no bolt can stand Before the Brownie's tiny hand; The sash will rise, the panel yield. And leave him master of the field.- When safe they stood within the hall, A pleasant time was V promised all. r k^e, o NciI Said one: "The clubs let me obtain That Indians use upon the plain, And here I '11 stand to test my power, And swing them 'round my head an hour; Though not the largest in the band, I claim to own no infant hand; And muscle in this arm you '11 meet That well might grace a trained athlete. . Two goats once blocked a mountain pass, S0. Contending o'er a tuft of grass. Important messages of state Forbade me there to stand and wait; Without a pause, the pair I neared SAnd seized the larger by the beard; : .... ~I dragged him from his panting foe And hurled him to the plain below." "For clubs," a second an- swered there, " Or heavy weights I little care; Let those by generous nat- ure planned At heavy lifting try their hand; But give me bar or give me L ring, Where I can turn, contort, and swing, And I '11 outdo, with move- ments fine, The monkey on his tropic vine." Thus skill and strength and wind they tried By means they found on every side. Some claimed at once the high trapeze, And there performed with grace and ease; They turned and tumbled left and right, As though they held existence light. At times a finger-tip was all Between them and a fearful fall. On strength of toes they now depend, Or now on coat-tails of a friend- And had that cloth been less than best That looms could furnish, east or west, Some members of the Brownie race Might now be missing from their place. 39 But fear, we know, scarce ever finds A home within their active minds. And little danger they could see In what would trouble you or me. Some stood to prove their muscle strong, And swung the clubs both large and long That men who met to practice there Had often found no light affair. A rope they found as \'round they ran, And then a "tug-of-war" began; First over benches, stools, and chairs, Then up and down the wind- ing stairs, They pulled and hauled and tugged around, Now giving up, now gaining ground, Some lost their footing at the go, And on their backs slid to and fro Without a chance their state to mend Until the contest found an end. Their coats from tail to collar rent Showed some through trying treatment went, And more, with usage much the same, All twisted out of shape, and lame, Had scarce a button to their name. 40 r *-I l a3 The judge selected for the case Ran here and there about the place With warning cries and gesture wide, And seemed unable to decide. And there they might be tug- ging still, With equal strength and equal will- But while they struggled, stars withdrew And hints of morning broader grew, Till arrows from the rising sun Soon made them drop the rope and run. B cS THE BROWNIES' FEAST. N best of spirits, blithe and free,- As Brownies always seem to be,- A jovial band, with hop and leap, Were passing through a forest deep, When in an open space they spied A heavy caldron, large and wide, Where woodmen, working at their trade, A rustic boiling-place had made. "My friends," said one, "a chance like this No cunning Brownie band should miss; All unobserved, we may prepare - And boil a pudding nicely there; Some dying embers smolder still 1 Which we may soon revive at will; S And by the roots of yonder tree 6 A brook goes babbling to the sea. At Parker's mill, some miles below, They 're grinding flour as white as snow; .An easy task for us to bear Enough to serve our need from there: 42 I noticed, as I passed to-night, A window with a broken light, And through the opening we '1 pour I) Though bolts and bars be on the door." "And I," another Brownie cried, "Will find the plums and currants dried; I 'll have some here in half an hour ' To sprinkle thickly through the flour; So stir yourselves, and bear in mind That some must spice and sugar find."' "I know," cried one," where hens have made Their nest beneath the burdock shade - I saw them stealing out with care To lay their eggs in secret there. The farmer's wife, through sun and rain, Has sought to find that nest in vain: They cackle by the wall of stones, The hollow stump and pile of bones, And by the ditch that lies below, Where yellow weeds and nettles grow; And draw her after everywhere Until she quits them in despair. The task be mine to thither lead SIi To help me bear a tender load Along the rough and rugged road." T -- (Away, away, on every side, At once the lively Brownies glide; Some after plums, more 'round the hill- The shortest way to reach the mill- While some on wings and some on legs Go darting off to find the eggs. A few remained upon the spot To build a fire beneath the pot; Some gathered bark from trunks of trees, While others, on their hands and knees, Around the embers puffed and blew Until the sparks to blazes grew; And scarcely was the kindling burned Before the absent ones returned. All loaded down they came, in groups, In couples, singly, and in troops. Upon their shoulders, heads, and backs They bore along the floury sacks; With plums and currants others came, Each bag and basket filled the same; W le in tWhile those who gave SBefthe hens a call LikeHad taken nest-egg, nest, and all; TheyAnd more, a pressing want to meet, From some one's line had hauled a sheet, The monstrous pudding to infold While in the boiling pot it rolled. The roues were flour from head to feet Before the mixture was complete. Like snow-birds in a drift of snow They worked and elbowed in the dough, Till every particle they brought Was in the mass before them wrought. And soon the sheet around the pile Was wrapped in most artistic style. Then every plan and scheme was tried To hoist it o'er the caldron's side. At times, it seemed about to fall, And overwhelm or bury all; Yet none forsook their post through fear, - But harder worked with danger near. They pulled and hauled and orders gave, And pushed and pried with stick and stave,O , NOR-~--w Until, in spite of height and heat, They had performed the trying feat. To take the pudding from the pot They might have found as hard and hot. But water on the fire they threw, And then to work again they flew. And soon the steaming treasure sat Upon a stone both broad and flat, '_ Which answered for a table grand, - When nothing better was at hand. 46 Some think that Brownies never eat, But live on odors soft and sweet, That through the verdant woods proceed Or steal across the dewy mead; But those who could have gained a sight Of them, around their pudding white, Would have perceived that elves of air Can relish more substantial fare. They clustered close, and delved and ate Without a knife, a spoon, or plate; Some picking out the plums with care, And leaving all the pastry there. While some let plums and currants go, But paid attention to the dough. The purpose of each Brownie's mind Was not to leave a crumb behind, That, when the morning sun should shine Through leafy tree and clinging vine, No traces of their sumptuous feast It might reveal to man or beast; And well they gauged what all could bear, When they their pudding did prepare; For when the rich repast was done, The rogues could neither fly nor run. -The miller never missed his flour, For Brownies wield a mystic power; Whate'er they take they can restore In greater plenty than before. THE BROWNIES TOBOGGANING. ONE evening, when the snow lay white level plain and mountain height, On The r Brownies Mustered, one .- and all, In answer to a spe- cial call. r, *- .,,'. i ^/ wfS __ I __ _s All clustered in a ring they stood Within the shelter of the wood, S While earnest faces brighter grew At thought of enterprises new. KTT"O-- Said one, "It seems that all the rage, With human kind of every age, Is on toboggans swift to slide u' \. Down steepest hill or mountain side. "I Our plans at once we must prepare, And try, ourselves, that pleasure rare. We might enough toboggans find In town, perhaps, of every kind, If some one chanced to know where they Awaiting sale are stowed away." Another spoke: "Within us lies The power to make our own supplies; We '11 not depend on other hands To satisfy these new demands; The merchants' wares we 'll let alone And make toboggans of our own; A lumber-yard some miles from here Holds seasoned lumber all the year. There pine and cedar may be found, And oak and ash are piled around. Some boards are thick and some are thin, But all will bend like sheets of tin. At once we 'll hasten to the -spot, And, though a fence surrounds the lot, We 'll skirmish 'round and persevere, And gain an entrance,-never fear." 5 49 [ )This brought a smile to every face, 11'1 I For Brownies love to climb and race, And undertake such work as will Bring into play their wondrous skill. The pointers on the dial plate Could hardly mark a later date, -- l Before they scampered o'er the miles SThat brought them to the lumber piles, of" And then they clambered, crept, and squeezed, c And gained admittance where they pleased; For other ways than builders show To scale a wall the Brownies know. Some sought for birch, and some for pine, And some for cedar, soft, and fine. With free selection well content. J 1 Soon under heavy loads they bent. ti It chanced to be a windy i' night, Which made their labor far from light; But, though a heavy tax was laid On strength and patience, undis- mayed They worked their way by hook or crook, And reached at last , a sheltered nook; -_ Then lively work the crowd began To make toboggans true to plan. The force was large, the rogues had skill, And hands were willing--better still; S So here a twist, and there a bend, Soon brought their labors to an end. Without the aid of steam or glue, - They curved them like a war canoe;- No little forethought some dis- played, But wisely "double-enders " made, That should they turn, as turn they might, They'd keep the downward course aright; r r-2' They fashioned some for three -_ $ or four, And some to carry eight or more, While some were made to take a crowd And room for half the band allowed. Before the middle watch of night, The Brownies sought the mountain height, And down the steepest grade it showed The band in wild procession rode; Some lay at length, some found a seat; Some bravely stood on bracing feet. B_ But trouble, as you understand, Oft moves with pleasure, hand in hand, And even Brownies were not free From evil snag or stubborn tree That split toboggans like a quill, And scattered riders down the hill. With pitch and toss and plunge they flew,- Some skimmed the drifts, some tunneled through; Then out across the frozen plain At dizzy speed they shot amain, 52 *' ., *, I Through splintered rails and S,'' flying gates ,,''1, Of half a dozen large estates; i Until it seemed that ocean wide Alone .V 0 could c- -' \check the .. c ..Y' fearful ride. Some, growing dizzy with the speed, At times a friendly hand would need To help them keep their proper grip Through all the dangers of the trip. And thus until the stars had waned, The sport of coasting was maintained. ' Then, while they sought with lively race In deeper woods a hiding-place, "How strange," said one, "we never tried Till now the wild toboggan ride I But since we 've proved the pleasure fine L. That's found upon the steep incline, We'll often muster on the height, And make the most of every night, Until the rains of spring descend And bring such pleasures to an end." :' ', Another answered frank and free: 1"I)a all such musters count on me; orthough my bback is badly strained, V) My elbow-joint and ankle sprained, I '1l be the first upon the ground As long as patch of snow is found, And bravely do my part to steer Toboggans on their wild career." So every evening, foul or fair, The jovial Brownies gathered there, Till with the days of Spring, at last, Came drenching shower and melting blast, Which sent the mountain's ice and snow To fill the rivers miles below. 'V '" Z I'.C I THE BROWNIES' BALLOON. WHILE rambling through the forest shade, A sudden halt some Brownies made; For spread about on bush and ground An old balloon at rest they found, That while upon some flying trip Had given aeronauts the slip, And, falling here in foliage green, Through all the summer-lay unseen. The Brownies gathered fast to stare Upon the monster lying there, And when they learned the use and plan Of valves and ropes, the rogues began To lay their schemes and name a night When all could take an airy flight. We want," said one, "no tame affair, Like some that rise with heated air, -- And hardly clear the chimney-top Before they lose their life and drop. The bag with gas must be. supplied, That will insure a lengthy ride; When we set sail 't is not to fly Above a spire and call it high. The boat, or basket, must be strong, Designed to take the crowd along; For that which leaves a part behind Would hardly suit the Brownie - mind. The works that serve the town of Bray With gas are scarce two miles away. To-morrow night we 'll come and bear, As best we can, this burden there; And when inflated, fit to rise, We 'll take a sail around the skies." S Next evening, as the scheme was planned, SThe Brownies promptly were on hand;. For when some pleasure lies in view, S The absentees are always few. SBut 't was no easy task to haul The old balloon, car, ropes and all, -- Across the rocks and fallen trees .-<---^? And through the marshes to their knees. But Brownies, persevering still, Will keep their course through every ill, And in the main, as history shows, Succeed in aught they do propose. So, though it cost them rather dear, In scratches there and tumbles here, They worked until the wondrous feat Of transportation was complete. 57 ,* r.. .'; Then while some busy fingers played Around the rents that branches made, An extra coil of rope was tied In long festoons around the side, That all the party, young and old, Might find a trusty seat or hold. And while they worked, they chatted free About the wonders they would see. Said one: As smoothly as a kite, We '11 rise above the clouds to-night, And may the question settle soon, About the surface of the moon." Now all was ready for the gas, And soon the lank and tangled mass Began to flop about and rise, S As though impatient for the skies; Then was there work for every hand That could be mustered in. the band, To keep the growing monster low Until they stood prepared to go; To this and that they made it fast, Round stones and stakes the rope was cast; 58 I I zz- But strong it grew and stronger still, As every wrinkle seemed to fill; And when at last it bounded clear, And started on its wild career, A rooted stump and garden gate, It carried off as special freight. Though all the Brownies went, a part Were not in proper shape to start; Arrangements hardly were complete, Some wanted room and more a seat, While some in acrobatic style Must put' their trust in toes awhile. But Brownies are not hard to please, And soon they rested at their ease; Some found support, both safe and strong, Upon the gate that went along, By some the stump was utilized, And furnished seats they highly prized. Now, as they rose they ran afoul Of screaming hawk and hooting owl, And flitting bats that hooked their wings At once around the ropes and strings, 59 As though content to there abide And take the chances of the ride. On passing through a heavy cloud, One thus addressed the moistened crowd: "Although the earth, from which we rise, Now many miles below us lies, To sharpest eye, strain as it may, The moon looks just as far away." "The earth is good enough for me!" Another said, "with grassy lea, And shady groves, of -- songsters full.- Will some one give the valve a pull ?" And soon they all were well content, To start upon a \ A mild descent. commenced to go, to check the flow; control to gain, to rush amain. Then some began to wring their hands, And more to vol- unteer com- mands; While some were craning out to view What part of earth their wreck would strew, A marshy plain, a rocky shore, Or ocean with its sullen roar. 60 It happened as they neared the ground, A rushing gale was sweep- -- ing round, That caught and carried them with speed Across the forest and the mead. Then lively catch- ing might be seen At cedar tops and branches green; While still the S stump behind them swung, On this it caught, to that it hung, And, as an anchor, played a part They little thought of at the start. At length, in spite of sweeping blast, Some friendly branches held them fast: And then, descending, safe and sound, The daring Brownies reached the ground. But in the tree-top on the hill The old balloon is hanging still, And saves the farmers on the plain From placing scare-crows in their grain. THE BROWNIES CANOEING. S day in shades of evening sank, The Brownies reached a river bank; And there awhile stood gazing down At students from a neighboring town, Whose light canoes charmed every eye, As one by one they floated by. Said one, "We 'll follow as until they gain the point below. 9 TUntil they gain the point below. Al. "lLh'JiXJ^! There stands a house, but lately made, ,. e Wherein the club's effects are laid; e We'll take possession after dark S,- And in these strange affairs embark." They all declared, at any cost, A chance like this should ne'er be lost; And keeping well the men in sight They followed closely as they might. The moon was climbing o'er the hill, The owl was hooting by the mill, When from the building on the sands The boats were shoved with willing J hands. A "Shadow" model some explored, And then well-pleased they rushed on board; J The open "Peterboro'," too, Found its supporters-and a crew. The Indian "Birch-bark" seemed too frail And lacked the adjunct of a sail, Yet of a load it did not fail,- For all the boats were in demand; As well those which with skill were planned 63 By men of keenest judgment ripe, As those of humbler, home-made type. And soon away sailed all the fleet With every Brownie in his seat. The start was promising and fine; With little skill and less design They steered along as suited best, And let the current do the rest. 64 All nature seemed to be aware That something strange was stirring there. The owl to-whooed, the raven croaked; The mink and rat with caution poked Their heads above the wave, aghast; While frogs a look of wonder cast And held their breath till all had passed. - j. As every stream will show a bendl, i- If one explores from end to end, k,- .ill So every river, great and small, Must have its rapids and its fall; And those who on its surface glide O'er rough as well as smooth must ride. The stream whereon had started out The Brownie band in gleeful rout Was wild enough to please a trout. At times it tum- E bled on its way 0 'er shelving rocks f-'~. and bowlders gray. At times it formed from side to side A brood of whirl- pools deep andwide, That with each oth- er seemed to vie As fated objects drifted nigh. Ere long each watchful Brownie there, Of all these facts grew well aware; Some losing faith, as-people will, In their companions' care or skill, Would seize the paddle for a time, Until a disapproving chime Of voices made them rest their hand, 'And let still others take command. p But, spite of current, whirl, or go, In spite of hungry tribes below,- The eel, the craw-fish, leech, and pout, That watched them from the starting out, And thought each moment flitting by Might spill them out a year's supply,- SThe Brownies drifted onward still; And though confusion baffled skill, Canoes throughout the trying race Kept right side up in every case. But sport that traveled hand in hand With horrors hardly pleased the band, As pallid cheek and popping eye On every side could testify; And all agreed that wisdom lay In steering home without delay. So landing quick, the boats they tied To roots or trees as chance supplied, And plunging in the woods profound, They soon were lost to sight and sound. THE BROWNIES IN THE MENAGERIE. [E Brownies heard the news with ST glee, .G 0r .I, That in a city near the sea - A spacious building was designed For holding beasts of every kind. From polar snows, from desert sand, From mountain peak, and tim- bered land, UNDER T The beasts with claw and beasts with hoof, \ LIVI'NG A11 met beneath one slated c Ios, roof. S That night, like bees before the wind, With home in sight, and storm behind, The band of Brownies might ', V be seen, All scudding from the forest green. Less time it" took the walls to scale Than is required to tell the tale. The art that makes the lock seem weak, The bolt to slide, the hinge to creak, Was theirs to use as heretofore, S With good effect, on sash and door; And soon the band stood face to face With all the wonders of the 'place. 68 To Brownies, as to children dear, The monkey seemed a creature queer; They watched its skill to climb and cling, By either toe or tail to swing; Perhaps they got some hints that might Come well in hand some future night, When climbing up a wall or tree, Or chimney, as the case might be. Then off to other parts they 'd Strange To gather roundd .sne cr-at.ure To w atEIh th r i-:il v-.mn-nt-' oIf the -) Or at. the spotted ,se-rliimts stare. Ar.,iiund th. slephiL ,ion lung i Theliv sto.,d an int.,rei.st.c 11 throng, [De) t)lt o I'Sr t it1s stren1ith of ,ell- The mammoth turtle from its pen Was driven 'round and 'round again, And though the coach proved rather Slow SThey kept it hours upon the go. Said one, "Before your face and eyes I 'll take that snake from where it lies, And like a Hindoo of the East, SBenumb and charm the crawling beast, Then twist him 'round me on the spot And tie him in a sailor's knot." Another then was quick to shout, "We'll leave that snake performance out! SI grant you all the power you claim To charm, to tie, to twist and tame; But let me still suggest you try Your art when no one else is nigh. Of all the beasts that creep or crawl From Rupert's Land to China's wall, In torrid, mild, or frigid zone, The snake is best to let alone." Against this counsel, seeming good, At least .a score of others stood. Said one, My friend, suppress alarm; There 's nothing here to threaten harm. Be sure the power that mortals hold Is not denied the Brownies bold." ' 70 So, harmlessly as silken bands The snakes were twisted in their hands. Some hauled them freely 'round the place; Some braided others in a trace; And every knot to sailors known, Was quickly tied, and quickly shown. Thus, 'round For some to from cage to cage they went, smile, and some comment On Nature's way of dealing out To this a tail, to that a. snout Of extra length, and then deny To something else a fair supply. - But when the bear and tiger growled, And wolf and lynx in chorus howled, And starting from its broken sleep, The lion rose with sudden leap, And, bounding 'round the rocking cage, With lifted mane, roared loud with rage, And thrust its paws between the bars, Until it seemed to shake the stars,- 71 I IIIo I . A panic seized the Brownies all, And out they scampered from the hall, As if they feared incautious men Had built too frail a prison pen. 72 THE BROWNIES' CIRCUS. ONE night the circus was in town With tumbling men and painted clown, And Brownies came from forest deep Around the tent to climb and creep, And through the canvas, as they might Of inner movements gain a sight. Said one, A chance we '11 hardly find That better suits the Brownie mind; To-night when all this great array Of people take their homeward way, SWe 'II promptly make a swift descent And take possession of the tent, And here, till morning light is shown, We 'll have a circus of our own." "I best," cried one, "of all the band The elephant can take in hand; I noticed how they led him round And marked the place he may be found; On me you may depend to keep The monster harmless as a sheep." The laughing crowd that filled the place, Had hardly homeward turned its face, Before the eager waiting band Took full possession as they planned, And 'round they scampered left and right = To see what offered most delight. Cried one, "If I can only find The whip, I '11 have a happy mind; For I '11 be master of the ring And keep the horses on the spring, Announce the names of those who ride, And snap the whip on every side." Another said, "I 'II be a clown; I saw the way they tumble down, And how the cunning rogues contrive To always keep the fun alive." 74 With such remarks away they went At this or that around the tent; The wire that not an hour before The Japanese had traveled o'er From end to end with careful stride, Was hunted up and quickly tried. Not one alone upon it stepped, But up by twos and threes they crept, Until the strand appeared to bear No less than half the Brownies there. Some showed an easy, graceful pose, But some put little faith in toes, And thought that fingers, after all, Are best if one begins to fall. When weary of a sport they grew, Away to other tricks they flew. They rode upon the rolling ball Without regard to slip or fall; Both up and down the steep incline They kept their place, with balance fine, Until it bounded from the road, And whirled away without its load. 75 They galloped 'round the dusty ring Without a saddle, strap or string, And jumped through hoops both large and small, And over banners, poles and all. In time the elephant was found And held as though in fetters bound; Their mystic power controlled the beast,- He- seemed afraid to move the least, But filled with wonder, limp and lax, He stood and trembled in his tracks, While all the band from first to last Across his back in order passed. So thus they saw the moments fly Till dawn began to paint the sky; And then by every flap and tear They made their way to open air, SAnd off through lanes and alleys passed To reach their hiding-place at last. 7* 77 THE BROWNIES AT BASE-BALL. a level lot --- Where clubs from different cities c-.ame To play t.hi- unt.ion's favorite game. Then spoke a member of the band: "This game extends throughout the land; No city, town, or village 'round, But has its club, and diamond ground, With bases marked, and paths between, And seats for crowds to view the scene. At other games we've not been slow Our mystic art and skill to show; Let's take our turn at ball and bat, And prove ourselves expert at that." -, 4 Another answered: "I w have p A method to equip our ba There is a firm in yonder town, Whose goods have won them wide renown; Their special branch of business lies In sending forth these club supplies. The balls are wound as hard as stones, The bats are turned as smooth as bones, And masks are made to guard the nose Of him who fears the batter's blows, Or stops the pitcher's curves and throws. To know the place such goods to find, Is quite. enough for Browny-kind!" SWhen hungry bats came forth to wheel 'Round eaves and find their evening meal, The cunning Brownies sought the store, To work their way through sash and door. And soon their beaming faces told Success had crowned their efforts bold. A goodly number of the throng Took extra implements along, 79 planned ,nd. ~. C~ ~ In case of mishap on the way, Or loss, or breakage during play. The night was clear, the road was good, And soon within the field they stood. Then games were played without a pause, According to the printed laws. There, turn about, each took his place At first or third or" second U 6 At left or right or center field, .............. To pitch, to catch, or bat to wield, Or else as "short-stop" standing by To catch a "grounder" or a "fly." Soon every corner of the ground Its separate set of players found. A dozen games upon the green, With ins and outs might there be seen; The umpires noting all with care To tell if hits were foul or fair, The "strikes and "balls to plainly shout, And say if men were "safe" or "out," And give decision just and wise When knotty questions would arise. But many Brownies thought it best To leave the sport and watch the rest; And from the seats or fences high They viewed the scene with anxious eye And never failed, the contest through, - To render praise when praise was due. 81 While others, freed from games on hand, In merry groups aside would stand, And pitch and catch with rarest skill To keep themselves in practice still. Now "double plays" and balls well curved And "base hits" often were observed, While "errors" were but seldom seen Through all the games upon that green.. Before the flush of morn arose To bring their contests to a close, The balls and bats in every case Were carried back and put in place; And when the Brownies left the store, All was in order as before. THE BROWNIES AND THE BEES. I ILE Brownies once were rambling through y A forest where tall timber grew, SThe hum of bees above their head To much remark and wonder led. They gazed at branches in the air And listened at the roots with care, And soon a pine of giant size Was found to hold the hidden prize. Said one : Some wild bees here have made Their home within the forest shade, Where neither fox nor prying bear Can steal the treasure gathered there." Another spoke: "You 're quick and bright, And as a rule judge matters right; But here, my friend, you 're all astray, And like the blind mole grope your way. I chance well to remember still, How months ago, when up the hill, 83 A farmer near, with bell and horn, Pursued a swarm one sunny morn. The fearful din the town awoke, The clapper from his bell he broke; But still their queen's directing cry The bees heard o'er the clamor high; And held their bearing for this pine As straight as runs the county line. With taxes here, and failures there, The man can ill such losses bear. In view of this, our duty 's clear: To-morrow night we 'll muster here, And when we give this tree a fall, In proper shape we '11 hive them all, 84 And take the queen and working throng And lazy drones where they belong." Next evening, at the time they 'd set, Around the pine the Brownies met With tools collected, as they sped From mill and shop and farmer's shed; While some, to all their wants alive, With ready hands procured a 'hive. Ere work began, said one: I fear But little sport awaits us here. Be sure a trying task we 'll find; The bee is fuss and fire combined. Let's take him in his drowsy hour, ~ Or when palavering to the flower. For bees, however wild or tame, In all lands are about the same; And those will rue it who neglect To treat the buzzer with respect." Ere long, by steady grasp and blow, The towering tree was leveled low; And then the hive was made to rest In proper style above the nest, .^ Until the queen and all her train Did full and fair possession gain. Then 'round the hive a sheet was tied, h That some were thoughtful to provide, And off on poles, as best they could, They bore the burden from the wood. 85 But trouble, as one may divine, Occurred at points along the line, 'T was bad enough on level ground, Where, now and then, one exit found; But when the Brownies lacked a road, Or climbed the fences with their load,- Then numbers of the prisoners there Came trooping out to take the air, And managed straight enough to fly To keep excitement running high. With branches broken off to suit, And grass uplifted by the root, 87 In vain some daring Brownies tried To brush the buzzing plagues aside. Said one, whose features proved to all That bees had paid his face a call: "I 'd rather dare the raging main Than meddle with such things again." "The noble voice," another cried, "Of duty still must rule and guide,- Or in the ditch the sun would see The tumbled hive for all of me." And when at last the fence they found That girt the farmer's orchard 'round, And laid the hive upon the stand, There hardly was, in all the band, A single Brownie who was free From some reminders of the bee. But thoughts of what a great surprise Ere long would light the farmer's eyes Soon drove away from every brain The slightest thought of toil or pain. |