niary lettusTJ ioiTias -. Book > hlJ-JS'Y^ COPYRIGHT DEPOSn^ SOME FANCIES IN VERSE SOME FANCIES IN VERSE BY MARY PETTUS THOMAS NEW YORK AND WASHINGTON THE NEALE PUBLISHING COMPANY 1906 LIBRARY of CONGRESS TwoCooies Received MAY 18 1906 Couyright tntry CLASS%,'^Xc7no^ COPY 13. ^ 3^ 7. ^ .:?(? f C Copyright, 1906, by The Neale Publishing Company TO MY SISTER "Now for the joy in the making, Take them O fond and true, And for her sake who made them Let them be dear to you." CONTENTS. The Four-Leaf Clover. PAGE, The Four-Leaf Clover i6 My Lady 17 A Duet ig In Answer to the Question 20 My Books 21 A Flower Fable 23 An Orderly Ballad 25 The Degree Preferred 27 Was She Right? 28 His Resolve 30 Lines Sent with an Easter Offering., 32 "Dinna Forget Me in the New Century" S3 A Valentine 34 Going! 35 Going, Gone ! 36 The Guide 38 Forward 39 Nestor Intercedes 46 Like a Flower 49 'Twas Ever Thus 50 The Hunter 51 Our College Town 53 The Academia Girl 57 Presentation Address 59 "Um Einem Gruss in der Scheidestunde'' 60 Whom God Took 62 In Childhood's Realm. Will's Desire 68 AVhat Is a Gentleman? 70 Divine Drudgery 71 God's Lanterns y;^ Her Valentine 74 Captured Conversation 75 II PAGE. A Little Pig Tale 'jy Ping Pong at Baylor 79 What Shello Liked Best 81 Like Dr. Toots 82 Jack, My Dog 84 Address of Welcome 86 Two Roses 87 Father and Child 90 Two Pictures 91 To Dreamland Sent. Sleep, My Sweet 96 To the Dark, Dark Woods 97 Morning-Glory Vision. 98 A Rainbow Gay 99 Wake, Oh Wake! 100 Maida's Dreams loi A Queen's Plaint 103 Disappointment 104 THE FOUR-LEAF CLOVER Who is not superstitious — a little? Who does not feel glad to see the new moon, for the first time, over the right shoulder (or, is it the left?) — to find a pin with the point turned toward him — to make a wish while a meteor is falling — to stumble on a four-leaf clover? That came from the Garden of Eden, so a Mohammedan legend says. To Eve — poor Mother Eve — on leaving her first home was given the privilege of taking one flower with her. She chose the clover, and was in the act of plucking it, when the angel, with the flaming sword extended, cried, "Pass on !" She seized three leaves, and since then the clover has grown with that number. One plant with the original four leaves, pitying her who had left all beauty and happiness, crept out- side the garden walls, and grew. Sometimes now in wandering through the fields 'Svhere clover blossoms red and white do blow," one finds a sprig of that which came from Eden's garden. Happy he who finds it ; for to him it is a sure sign of the health, wealth, fame, and friends that will be his — some day. 15 THE FOUR-LEAF CLOVER To Mildred. "One is for fame, and one's for wealth, And one's for a faithful lover, And one will bring me glowing health — Rare, good luck to find this clover." Adown the path where Golden-rod, Fair Autumn's crowning glory, And royal purple Asters nod. They are telling love's sweet story. Right at her feet, a glad surprise, She beholds a Four-Leaf Clover. On this bright morn, with joy she spies. From Eden's walls, the loving rover. Thro' shim'ring leaves the sun looks down And glints her waving, yellow hair. "You have, indeed, a golden crown, And — Eve herself was not more fair. May all good things which Clover brings Ever, Sweetheart, round you hover." "What need I more?" the clear voice rings; "I have my faithful lover." Not wealth, nor fame — her years were few- On ev'ry path are shadows found; Yet was the leaf an omen true — Love's halo girt her life around. i6 MY LADY C. J. H. — August 1 6, 1904. By her, whatever fitting- seems Instinctively is known, Since she no creature low esteems, To all is kindness shown. Graciously is outstretched her hand To sufferings humankind ; To call her blessed, her husband And children are inclined. In her presence men find easier Pure thoughts and noble deeds, And earth a little heavenlier Because she upwards leads. In those about her virtues grow As 'neath her fostering care, Flowers that else would never blow Make sweeter all the air. 17 O crucible rare is woman's heart, "Man can not love/' we're told; Yet, by process of Love's alchemy, Base metal's changed to gold. i8 A DUET. A fair maid crossed the hills one day, And plaintively sang as she passed : "Springtime came, but soon slipped away; Summer flowers all faded fast, Autumn's here with chill and decay ; — Ah, if, sometime, something could last !" Down in the vale, a lad heard the lay. And sang in reply ere she passed : "When you're away, dark is the day. And winter's chill o'er earth is cast. Though all else change, remember, pray, My love, dear one, forever will last." They chanced to meet at close of day. When trees their length'ning shadows cast. "Let's go alone no more, I pray ; Then though the springs slip fleetly past, And flowers of summer fade away. Naught shall we care, for Love will last.' 19 IN ANSWER TO THE QUESTION— "What Is the Most Important Thing in Life?" The ruler said, "That wars on earth may cease — Let all have justice, liberty and peace." And he, who'd wisdom sought from early youth, Said, "Not possession, but the search for truth." With babe on knee, in eyes the light supernal. The mother whispered, "Love, for that's eternal." Oh, list ! "In knowledge of the One above Grow thou." And He's all Peace, all Truth, all Love. 20 MY BOOKS "What are the best books you have ever read, and why were they so chosen by you?" was asked. When Lockart asked, "What must be read — Of many books which one's most dear?" ^'There's only one/' Sir Walter said, "No other written words I'll hear." That one with me the first's e'er been — 'Twas deeply graved on childish mind ; And still this Book of Books within The sacred words of Life I find. Next comes the "Idylls of the King" — Arthur is ideally human ; Another poet's "Book and Ring" Shows Pompilia, perfect woman. The truest, purest love one sees Within the Brownings' "Letters." While "Sonnets from the Portuguese" One woman's soul unfetters. 21 Henri Amiel's ''Journal Intime" Mind and quiv'ring heart lays bare ; And ''Wilhelm Tell" I do esteem A plea for freedom, strong and rare. A Scottish idyl which will live, "The Bonnie Brier Bush," I'm sure To me much pleasure e'er will give. For 'tis, as fiction should be, pure. So is '7<^hn Gray," that perfect tale Which a Kentuckian twice has told Of manly strife in Blue-grass vale In the aureate days of old. In "The Other Wise Man" Van Dyke pleads "On worldly pomp lay thou no stress ; Through devious ways God safely leads ; Oft seeming failure proves success." "With Infinity in Tune" by Trine — The one last named, not least esteemed — Shows mystic realm that now is mine, A realm of which I'd only dreamed. These are the books which hold my heart — To higher thought e'er leading; Their charm will last till Life depart. And I be done with reading. A FLOWER FABLE Uproar heard in the garden near! — "Too long the Rose is queen ! Rotation in office — do you hear ? — Good rule has ever been." Many an old-time favorite Began to urge her claim : ''To occupy the royal seat Has ever been my aim." "Of this collection I'm the gem," The haughty Aster said ; And fragrant Pink raised slender stem Above the Violet bed. The Morning-glory clambered o'er Sweet Peas and Dahlias tall ; And flaunting Poppy was quite sure, 'T'll grace the royal hall." "Good-day!" the bright-faced Pansy said, "Of me the bards have sung" ; Then Marigold raised her shining head The other blooms among. 23 "I'd fear to say who must be queen, When all are fair — so fair ; But she who hath — thus e'er it's been— Doth get a larger share. "You who now wear a golden crown"— Just here the Judge grew bold — "You are the one to mount the throne, You, yellow Marigold." Haec Fabula Docet: Straws do the wind's direction show. 'Twas not in days of old — For, from these flowers, all may know, Ours is the Age of Gold. 24 AN ORDERLY BALLAD The Knights of Bath and Table Round, Of Garter and Golden Fleece, The Orders of the Palm and Crown With founders did not cease. Masonic Order, T. P. A., Elks, Templars at this hour. The Honor Knights, and Pythians, say, ''Chivalry's still in flower." Red Men, Woodmen, Colonial Dames, Sons and Daughters of brave sires (In many bands with lengthy names) Our country's weal inspires. There are Guilds in Science, Letters, Art, United Press, Sororities ; All Trades and Workers Unions start — They are necessities. Of Dorcas and Rebecca clan Not one ''is marked for rest" ; To ameliorate the state of man The "Stay-at-homes" are best. 25 Some Gideonites traverse this land, Blue-badged with noble aim ; While Christian League and Sunshine Band Shed gladness in His name. Envoi : — Co-operating energy Is order's wisest plan ; 'Twill bring some day, Fraternity — True Brotherhood of Man. 26 THE DEGREE PREFERRED ''Every woman must have her fad you see, Canary, cat, club, or else — a Degree. No taste have you shown for the first named three ; But much time have you given to the last," said He. "A. M. and Ph. D. attest the store Of knowledge you've gained from learning's lore ; Next, by loyal fervor swayed, a U. D. C. ; Ancestral culture and family tree Made you Colonial Dame, which gave C. D. ; Then a Daughter, D. A. R., the degree. Now, something Pd add to your last. Please hear ! Not E; for to me you've always been DEAR. DARLING'S the degree Fd confer," said He. 'That one above all Pd prefer," said SHE. 27 WAS SHE RIGHT? A waning moon, a summer night, O'erhead the stars Hke lanterns bright ; A wearied man, just home from town, Saw on his porch what made him frown — A handsome youth, a maiden fair, To say "good-night" were standing there. "I'll just wait here in fir-tree's shade Until he leaves," the father said. Forgotten were his youthful days, Exceeding great was his amaze To find how long such partings are, Yet loth was he their joy to mar. The young man asked for just one kiss, For him 'twould prove the crown of bliss. He begged and begged, but she said, ''No .'" He begged again and would not go. An hour had passed the father knew, For he was tired and angry, too. His wrath increased with every word Of pleading from the young man heard, — 28 No more forbearance could be shown, — So when again the girl said **No," Aloud he cried in irate tone, ''Do kiss the fool and let him go !" A flash of white up stairway sped, A long black streak as swiftly fled With panting breath and flying feet Out through the gate, adown the street. The father entered study dim, A smile played o'er the features grim. 'It was a wise man, now I see. Who said. What fools these mortals be !' In after years, when as a wife She calmly viewed this thing called life, Remembering oft that summer night. She wondered if she did the right. 'To solve this doubt, in vain I try. Please tell," said she, ''all ye who know- Now would it better been had I Just kissed the fool and let him go?" 29 HIS RESOLVE January i. The New Year lies an open book, The leaves all blank on which I look, — Boys, I'm not joking, — I want to keep those pages white. Now hear my firm resolve to-night : I will quit smoking. February i. "Ah, at it still !" I hear you say. You "thought as much on New Year's day' Do stop your croaking — Though this you see, yet will you find That not at all is changed my mind ; I zvill quit smoking. February 22. Can fine cigars be thrown away ? And do you think it is fair play The fun you're poking? You fellows tempt me and I fall. Again I say, in spite of all, I will quit smoking. 30 March 15. 'Such conduct is not strange," you said, *My promises are simply made Just to be broken?" Well, the vow I make that very soon — Aye, ere the waning of this moon — I'll leave unspoken. April I. A self-respecting man at last ! To break off this which held me fast I have been trying. Still this one thing is in my power : Please hear me — at this very hour I will quit — lying. 31 LINES SENT WITH AN EASTER OFFERING 'For every petal here A kindly wish I send. Health, hope, and gay good cheer Your Easter-tide attend." THE ANSWER Thanks, thanks to thee, my charming friend, For the gift this Easter morning brought ; Its dainty beauty cheer did send. But far much more the kindly thought. Violets blue and snowdrops fair Make tender mem'ries have full sway. I send in lieu of roses rare, Of bleeding heart, a slender spray. 32 "DINNA FORGET ME IN THE NEW CENTURY." Written on receiving a card adorned with a spray of forget-me-nots, and the request "Dinna forget me in the new century," She vows that you are unforgot, Although to you she writeth not. Her muse has lately gone astray ; She's pressing tasks for every day; But, ever and anon, the card Brings tender thoughts 'midst duties hard. Of all the gifts the centuries send The best — it is a loving friend. While then on earth her feet are set, She will not, zvill not, yon forget. 33 A VALENTINE Oh beauty rare, beyond compare, , I see in you I do declare ! O'er brow of white Gleams halo bright. For auburn hair Crowns that face fair. With eyes in hue Like violets blue, And cheek that glows With tint of rose. Do I love you ? The poet's art Can never tell how much, dear heart. No other one Beneath the sun Knows love more true Than I bear you. And yet you fear, Altho' Leap Year, To speak the word Which must be heard. Ah! did you say that you'll be mine? This very day ? My Valentine ! 34 GOING! A Parody, Also an Episode in the Life of Pretty Prudence. "Now, where are you going, my pretty maid?" "I'm going to the Cooking Club, sir," she said. "Pray, what do you learn there, my pretty maid?" "To make salads, croquettes, meringues," she said ; "Mayonnaise, candy, and to cook sweet bread, Compotes and sauces," said this pretty maid. "Nothing substantial?" with a groan he said. "Sandwiches of turkey and chicken," she said. "But of the 'staff of life' — do you make no bread ?" "Oh, yes ! Biscuits and waffles, kind sir," she said. "And then do you eat them, my pretty maid?" "The good saints deliver us, sir !" she said. 35 GOING, GONE! Another Episode. "Where now are you going, my pretty maid?" **To a meeting of the Wednesday Club," she said. ''And what's done there ? — if you are not afraid To tell club secrets," smiling, he said. "We discuss all books that ever we've read, And speak of the writers living and dead ; Delight in the study of Browning we find — Wonderful he was, both in heart and mind" — ('Twas a wry face he made, "He's great indeed !") "A Renaissance paper to-day I'll read. Of Michelangelo we'll also talk — " "Say, wouldn't it be nicer with me to walk? "Don't go to the club ! Let us go instead To the creek, by the old lime kiln," he said. "To your invitation should I give heed ? Just now, you were going elsewhere with speed." Z^^ ■'1 am under promise to meet a friend, Some sage advice about business to lend ; But can I think of him when you are in sight? Please say you'll go with me ! 'Twill all be right." No paper was read at the club that day, And the talk about Art went all astray ; 'Liar !" a business man was heard to say When the appointed hour had passed away. But o'er the hill they went, along the creek, Violets, ferns, and bluebonnets to seek. And the wedding-bells will soon ring, 'tis said, For Clarence and Prudence, this man and maid. 37 THE GUIDE "I cannot leave this joyous throng, This flower-strewn mead — all mirth and song; I cannot bear this heavy load Along that dizzy, upward road ; The thorns will pierce my feet," wailed she, "It cannot, cannot be !" "That is the path marked out for you, That narrow way you must pursue — Go ! my child," again the voice says ; And, trembling, she obeys. Unseen, because of tear-dimmed eyes. One goes before in angel guise Who timely cuts the briers keen That o'er her pathway lean. A breathless pause ere set of sun — A backward glance o'er stretches wide — And then — she knows her loving guide : — Lo! 'tis the thorn-crowned One. 38 FORWARD "Sieh' vorwarts, und nicht hinter dich." I Will you hear again the story of the Titan brothers twain Who are said, in distant ages, to have dwelt on Grecian plain? Epimetheus, or Afterthought, the younger being named, Pondered on the gone-by Yesterdays, — 'tis for this that he was famed, — Backward looked, nor of the present thought, and thus did not prevent Fair Pandora, the All-gifted, sent by Zeus with ill intent, From opening wide, through wantonness, that casket strangely wrought, And letting loose on Hellas land the direful woes it brought. 39 II Prometheus, the elder ( Forethought being called), with steadfast gaze, Ever forward turned far-seeing eyes unto the coming days, Sought the dwelling of the Sun in distant East, where Faith had birth. And, as the radiant orb was rising from the Earth, He touched to it his hollow reed and some celes- tial fire caught. Then back to caves where shiv'ring men in vain their comfort sought He went, and gave to them this wonder — this pre- cious spark divine. Which, thought he, would prove a blessing great — of their poor lives the wine. Ill He taught them to make fires whose bright blaze and upward curling smoke Afar-off caught the gaze of Jove and his mighty Mountain Folk, Showed them how to build their houses out of wood and stone — and more. How to plow, to sow, to reap, and how to find and use the ore. 40 Gone from them, and forever, were all their wild and savage ways ; And e'en the dwellers in the caves had sunward turned their gaze. In their hearts they thanked Prometheus for the gift brought from the Sun, For well they knew that he for them the joy of Life had won. IV And this Prometheus, this wise seer, who helped them better grow, He whose desire was granted to make them hap- pier than before. He who remembered the joy-filled days of Saturn's peaceful reign — When living meant no struggle and they nothing knew of pain ; When o'er fragrant flower-decked woods and meadows floated bird songs rare, Though filled the vines with luscious Autumn fruits, 'twas Spring time everywhere — Pleased, he cried, "A new and better Golden Age will dawn again. For no Lotus Land of ease can now be Paradise to men." 41 "Look forward, Werner, and not backward!" 'Twas this Frau Gertrude said To inspire with courage the husband, who, with timorous dread. Feared much to take the step that would plunge the Switzers into strife, Though Austria with despotic rule was crushing out their life. Her words aroused him, and, swearing with Wil- liam Tell and others To stand together, they became a nation of true brothers, Free as were their sires who rather than be slaves preferred to die, Forward looked, drove out the foreign hordes, while trusting God Most High. VI Now if from stories such as these, because in fic- tion shrouded, We learn no lesson, let's hear him whose faith's by no doubt clouded — That valiant soul whose ringing words found in the one great Book Are these : 'This I do ; forgetting things behind, I forward look, 42 And to the goal — the prize of God's high calHng — onward I go." Into our hearts Hke strains of martial music clear and loud should flow These words of courage, trust, and cheer, while we with banished fears Stand in the Now — a quiv'ring heart-throb twixt the past and coming years. VII Some past hopes of ours have found fruition in spite of loss and pain ; There have been sweet comradeships, and pleasant toil of hand and brain. Though we've failed, and in our blindness fallen, yet if we've nobly striven. All we've done, or bravely failed in doing, sur- vives as power given. Not success is true worth's measure. To win nobly is sublime ; But our Lord's ''Well done" is for him who does his best — who dares to climb. No act however humble, though never loud acclaims may ring, But may be a hinge on which the gate of Heaven will swing. 43 . VIII Nature's trend is ever onward. Near the river's bank you'll find Not only slender reeds and rushes, but the mighty oaks inclined, Following the direction of the current tending toward the sea. There should be no backward going. Let us learn this lesson — you and me. Who left Eden's gate could not return, so the flaming sword was raised ; But no Paradise stands barred in front of you, Heaven be praised ! As the Earth turns on its poles round and toward the Sun forevermore. So should we to hope beyond a failure, to Life beyond Death's door. IX "Where no vision is, the people perish," thus the wise man said. Who does not cherish high ideals, yet, while living, is he dead. Cromwell heard when but a lad, "Thou shalt be England's greatest man" ; He is ranked as "not an accident, but a shuttle in God's hand." 44 And she who led her country's soldiers, — that white-souled Maid of France, — She had listened to ''The Voices." Think you hers a work of chance? Inner voices ever upward call to those who will but hear. Do not think it a strange saying, but to you and me they're near. X Now this is the lesson for you. ''Forgetting the things behind And reaching to the things before, press forward" until you find That for which Paul bravely struggled — "of God's high calling the prize." Before are hills sunlit with promise. You need to lift your eyes. Visions fair and much more radiant than in the Past were known To those who will but see, in the Future truly will be shown. High ideals shall be realized. Heaven — on Earth begun — Does not hoard up all its glories for the sinking of Life's sun. 45 NESTOR INTERCEDES Lines 247-285 from Homer's Iliad, Book i. Then clearly spake the sweet-voiced Nestor, slow rising to his feet — E'er from this worthy Pylian's tongue flowed words like honey sweet, Two generations of men, during his life, had passed away. He, o'er the third, was ruling now with benefi- cent sway : ''How much would Priam and all the sons of Troy rejoice to know That you, the leaders of the Greeks, were in wrath contending so ! Through all the Achean land a flood of crushing sorrow pours. Then hearken to my words of counsel, — my years outnumber yours, — In days gone by I was with warriors more valiant far than ye. Such elsewhere have I never seen, nor think again to see. 46 None of those living on the earth can with them be compared — Dryas, called shepherd; Polyphemus, the God- like nature shared ; Peirithous, Cseneus, Exadius, Theseus, — all mortal sons, — Yet from their deeds of valor could be likened to immortal ones. Bravest of earthly men were these who after Centaurs sought In their mountain caves and strongholds and mightily with them fought. Called by them from my far-off home-land, I helped them to pursue And slay the frightful monsters, and their own stubborn wills subdue. They reverenced and obeyed me, as I would that ye should do, Since nothing pleases so the gods as does obedi- ence true. O Agamemnon, wide-ruling, wrest not from Achilles brave Briseis, the fair-cheeked maiden, whom to him the Greeks first gave. Cease from your wrath, no more your anger show, O Atreus' son, Against the hero who for you has many victories won. 47 Nor you, O valiant Peleus, tho' goddess-born, the king oppose. Know that to him the God of Heaven his lasting favor shows. Against his warring mighty hosts you will in vain have striven. For to no sceptred king has e'er such power been given." 48 LIKE A FLOWER "Du hist wie eine Blume" — Heine. Ah, like unto a flower So fair and pure thou art ! I look at thee and sadness Doth steal into my heart. On thy dear, golden head my hands In blessing I would lay, Praying that God may keep thee Thus pure and fair alway. 49 TWAS EVER THUS From the German. A hungry little chicken found A shining stone quite rare ; He straightway hid it in the ground And kept it, not to wear. "I'd be a very happy sir," The poor little chickie said, "If only this fine diamond were A tiny bit of bread !" 50 THE HUNTER From Schiller's Wilhelm Tell, Act III, Scene I. O'er the mountains, thro' the valleys low, When the day is brightly dawning, Armed with quiver and with bow, Hastes the hunter — danger scorning. Above the peaks of changing hues The mountain eagle proudly reigns ; But crags and clefts the hunter views, And sets o'er all his rightful claims. To him belong the creatures all That fleeting wing their way thro' air — On whatsoe'er his arrows fall. E'en in the wild beasts' hidden lair. 51 From Wilhelm Tell. Act IV, Scene III. Hurriedly comes dread Death to all — One may in vain for a respite call ; Perhaps it takes away from strife — Sometimes from a glad full life ; Prepared or not, with, or without, fear, All must before the great Judge appear. 52 OUR COLLEGE TOWN Listen, and I'll tell you of a charmed spot, In a goodly land toward the sundown plains. That glows and shimmers in the sun's rays hot, But is deeply green after vernal rains. With a golden light the moon and stars beam As nowhere else save on Syrian plains ; With fleckless blue the skies at noonday gleam, Toward dusk they blush with rose and purple stains. O'er emerald carpet, in fragrant mass. The spring Fairy lavishes blossoms bright ; With the bonnet blue, or buffalo grass. Primrose and buttercup the sward's alight. From oak, mesquite and cedar trees around. The Southern nightingale his whole soul pours In trills and cadences and liquid sound, Sweet as joy-mad skylark on England's moors. S3 Mayhap of this Columbus had foregleam That lured across the unknown, treacherous way; And Raleigh, in his Eldorado dream, Saw how, like gold, o'er all the sunshine lay. That brave, aged knight, in quest of Fount of Youth, Heard of its spring, with tottering footsteps came, But sank before he reached it. ('Tis the truth That to the river near was given his name.*) Hemmed round by hill and stream, this sheltered nook Gave rest when finished was a savage raid ; Here brave and feathered chieftains counsels took, And dusky warrior wooed the dusky maid. Columbia's first, but doomed — sad-fated child Has gone. Time-Spirit waved his potent wand And changes came into this garden wild. From older States — e'en from the seas beyond — Men here did come, nor found the dangers feared. Of brick and stone they've wisely built and well, Thick,'during walls for spacious dwellings reared ; Store-houses large where merchants buy and sell; *The Leon River flows near Belton.' 54 Four coffers, strong, which money-changers guard ; Factories, foundries, kilns for brick and lime, Gins that clean cotton and the bolls discard. Wheels and looms have spun and woven long time The fleecy fabric. Flour and oil are made. A handsome palace that where Justice rules. Who would unto his knowledge add, 'tis said, Can quaff from Learning's fount in many schools. There are schools of State and Academic halls, Kindergartens and Baylor's classic walls. To churches five the peal of bells invites Where e'er are told glad tidings of great joy; Tree-shaded park by flowing stream delights; A library free to man and maid and boy — By woman's labors were the books all won. The house a gift from Scotland's generous son; For farmers' weary wives a room for rest — From far and near they drive into the town — Club-rooms for social functions, quite the best. And at the opera house no one could frown. Three journals printed here one may peruse, Wells, lights, laundries — the swimming pool's a treat — Steam and electric wires convey the news, The Interurban makes the town complete. 55 These change not — rivers, everlasting hills, O'er all still pours a flood of golden light ; From leafy covert sound the mockbird's trills. Sunsets of dazzling beauty greet the sight. From rock-ribbed hills great building blocks are hewn. Along the banks of limpid, murmuring streams Ferns like lace and violets blue are strewn ; On whitened fields ''the flower of commerce" gleams. In all the Lone Star State no spot more fair. Wouldst see it ? Ah ! Search not the wide world o'er As he who vainly sought to find out where The Four-leaved clover. Fortune's plant, might grow. And learned, at last, returning to his own. It, all the while, beside his door had grown. Wouldst know this place ? It shall be known to Fame — The town is ours, and Belton is its name. 56 THE ACADEMIA GIRL Not perfect was the Puritan Pris, Although John Alden was a sage ; Nor e'en that royal, haughty Miss Whose reign was learning's golden age. She who's a union of the two May be called a perfect woman — Housewife of skill and ^'stocking blue" ; She's alone, ideally human. Through Royal Academia Hall There goes from Baylor's classic ground, Through trials that school-girls befall, The only model to be found. She's jolly, though she is so wise — This girl who's wholly bright and charming She can do whate'er she tries. And her fads are ne'er alarming. 57 Then for this earnest college girl — The only kind that merits praise — Let bright-hued banner now unfurl. For her alone we standard raise On Honor's roll, that all may know — Perhaps somewhere among the great- The Hall of Fame her name will show, As best and grandest in this State. REFRAIN : Our royal banner now behold ! Of purple, lavender and gold ; Oh, proudly these we'll always show, The fairest colors here below ! 58 PRESENTATION ADDRESS From the Historical Society. "The crest and crowning of all good, Life's final star, is Sisterhood." Through me the Royal Academians Offer their sisters greetings kind ; They also send these little books And hope in them some good you'll find. On "A Little Journey in the World" Can be seen "The Man with the Hoe," "Afterwards" the "Campaigns in Spain" Follow "The Day's Work" you know. Now with them goes the wish : While you Through this the passing century Tread Learning's upward path, oh, may Your mission, as the poet's, be "To ease the steps and lift the load Of souls that falter on the road !" 59 "UM EINEM GRUSS IN DER SCHEIDE- STUNDE" Class Poem. Saying farewell ! Has it come to this That we, my classmates and I, Must bid adieu to loved friends here, To our teachers say good-by ? 'Twas only yesterday — wasn't it? — That into these walls we came: Wide seems the chasm between Now and Then — Can we, or they, be the same? Dark, gloomy, and grim they massive rose Seen in the dim Hght of morn ; Look ! Now they are clothed with clinging vine Which flame-like flowers adorn. And our little rooms — my tiny one Seemed at first a prison cell ; Around it now, and forever will, Only fragrant memories dwell. How oft we'll recall in coming years The meetings there, the feasts galore. The watching for the starry showers. The secrets never told before. 60 We'll remember recitation rooms Where instructors held full sway, Where lessons better than the books contained Were taught us every day. We'd like to stay, we don't want to leave These memory haunted halls ; But Life's widened horizon stretches on — We hear inexorable calls. May precepts which have here been given Grow clearer every day, And characters they have helped to form Shine with steadfast gleam alway. May our souls be kept as lilies pure — Lilies white, with hearts of gold. That out from noisome, marshy bed Fragrance and beauty unfold. Not down in gay gardens of pleasure Are spent the most joyous hours, It is in the Master's fields alone Blossom forth the fairest flowers. May they who've led us in Wisdom's paths, May they *'to Heaven late return," And "Well done, thou good and faithful ones V Be the plaudit they shall earn. Along Life's road — Life's lengthening road — Whose end one seeth never, Safe within the hollow of His hand God keep you all — forever. 6i WHOM GOD TOOK O., November 25, 1902. A sacred scribe in words still unforgot, Told thus the story of a human lot, 'And Enoch walked with God, and he was not, For God took him." Did they of olden time much thought bestow On one to whom God did high honor show ? Or were their eyes holden so they could not know Till God took him? One was with us who daily walked with God. 'Twas thus no dreary life-path that she plod ; Flowers of sweetness sprang where'er she trod ; And God took her. In our hearts' deepest love we gave her share ; But never thought that we, 'mid daily care, Had entertained an angel unaware Till God took her ! 62 In pain, she ever saw her truest Friend, Who for all needs His promised help did lend. 'Twas light at eventime, and peaceful was the end When God took her. Though taken from *'our bourn of time and space," We know she has in Heaven found that place Where of earth's sorrows can be seen no trace Since God took her. To keep her safe from grief and pain and fears ; To take away from her all trace of tears ; To guard, protect her through the timeless years For this God took her. She walketh now on shores to us unknown, 'Mid glories never yet to mortals shown ; With the redeemed she stands — one of His own ! For God took her. And all the days for her new beauties hold ; The wondrous story of His grace is told ; And in that place undreamed-of joys unfold Where God took her. In joyful service yet she spends her hours; Unused are none of her perfected powers ; The good she did remains as fadeless flowers, And God took her ! 63 IN CHILDHOOD'S REALM "How was it then in childhood? * * * We have all wandered through this silent forest of wonders — we have all at one time opened our eyes in blissful stu- pefaction and the beautiful reality of life overflowed our soul. Then we knew not where we were and who we were — then was the whole world ours, and we belonged to the whole world. That was an eternal life — without beginning, without end and without sorrow. In the heart it was bright as the sky of spring, fresh as the odor of violets — quiet and holy as a Sunday morning." — Deutsche Liehe. "Blessed be childhood for the good that it does, and for the good which it brings about carelessly and uncon- sciously by simply making us love it and letting itself be loved. What little of paradise we see still on earth is due to its presence among us." — Amicl's Journal. ^7 WILL'S DESIRE "Ye must be born again !" Will had begun Just dreamily to think of all the fun He and Dave had Saturday catching trout, When the preacher's deep, earnest tones rang out. "I will have to sit up and listen well, For I'm certain Ma'll call on me to tell From what chapter and verse he took his text ; And if I don't know she's sure to be vexed. "I think she might ask Bess." Demure and fair, With long, shining tresses of sun-kissed hair. Cheeks that in color with peach-blossoms vied, Sat sweet, dimpled Bess by her mother's side. "Bess can tell, for she's nothing else to do But think of the sermon the whole way through. Were I as pretty, I'd sit still as she — How I wish I could be under that tree !" 68 "Ye must be born again !" The solemn voice, The straight glance at him, left Will no choice. Listen he must. "Could I have a good time I should like it," he thought. "No trees to climb To gather peaches for comp'ny to eat, And then be scolded if I scratch my feet Or tear my breeches ; to work no flowers, Nor drive little chickens out of showers. 'Never hunt up horses, nor go to mill, Nor drive the cows over that steep, hot hill ; Not to cut wood, nor draw any water — Be cared for always like 'little daughter' ; Never a whipping; instead, a caress — How happy I should be if I were Bess ! So — I will ask the Lord this very morn, To make me a girl next time I am born." 69 WHAT IS A GENTLEMAN? ^'A tall man helping somebody," 'Twas thus the answer ran, When asked by mother jestingly, ''What is a gentleman ?" "You're right, my child," she gravely said, "But to that I would add : Whose heart is pure, who speaks the truth. Who always shuns the bad; "Who steadfast goes in Duty's way Unlike the men of old That ever feared the Sirens' songs Though they were warriors bold ; "Who is polite to man and maid, Does all the good he can — Whate'er his dress, or work, or rank, Name him a Gentleman." 70 DIVINE DRUDGERY *I should like to make some money; it is needed by the Board To send, to those who sit in darkness, the mes- sage of our Lord, I cannot join the 'Hen Society,' although I'm country bred, I ne'er could manage chickens ; of sitting hens I am afraid." Then out spoke her little nephew Will — no one more brave than he : "Not a sitting, pecking, clucking hen has ever frightened me. Let us be partners. You buy the hens, and I to you will show That how to manage little chickens, I certainly do know." Alas, for the confident lad — for the plans he formed that day ! He learned the best laid schemes for money- making "gang aft agley" ; 71 Cholera — chickens' fell destroyer — soon laid the two hens low, Worse — his mother's caught the dread disease — a legacy of woe ; This signal failure grieved her ; then came a new resolve one day, "I still can make some money — 'where there's a will there's e'er a way.' To do some sewing, I'm determined" (by her mother she'd been taught) ; So on her sister's winter dress with diligent hands she wrought. Not of ''band, and gusset, and seam," renowned in "Song of the Shirt" ; To musical hum of machine, she sang the "Song of the Skirt." "Who sweeps a room as by Thy laws, makes that and th' action fine," Then who shall say that sewing may not be made "drudgery divine"? To the Board she sent the pittance earned, to buy the blessed Books For those who had them not — when found in valleys low, or mountain nooks. The gospel lightened burdens of weary toilers and their wives, It made the Lord have better servants — made men lead purer lives. GOD'S LANTERNS In the evening's crimson glow The parents drove, in converse low, Unmindful of the child whose eyes Gazed with delight on sunset skies. "Mamma, look there !" he quickly said, Directly pointing overhead, Where giant oaks, their branches flung; "One lantern is already hung." The day star was no more in sight. But o'er the trees shone Venus bright. "Whose, dear?" she asked in tender tone; "God's lantern," said the little one. "Through Nature up to Nature's God," Along the weary life-path plod Those who forget, or ne'er have said, "They are God's lanterns overhead." n HER VALENTINE Louise was reading a letter one day, And when Lois begged, "Please show me a line," Her sister, smiling in rapturous way. Said, '*Oh, no ! It's from my Valentine." But she hugged the dear child and kissed her brow (Louise was eighteen, the other was four) As Lois continued, ''I want one now," And neither heard the opening door. 'What's a Valentine like ? What does he do ?" "Oh, mine is handsome and — everything good," Said Louise quite softly — "a lover true" ; Then saw that near by the father stood ! Straight into his arms the little one flew. "If you are sister's, then are you not mine? 'Cause nobody in the world's like that but you ; Now, can't I call you my Valentine?" He laughed outright. "I was one once, my pet. When I still was young and gallant and bold. Your precious mother thinks I am hers yet, Although I'm gray and getting old. So, if you wish it, from this very day I'm yours to command, O girl of mine ! Until the prince comes to take you away I'm proud to be called yoiir Valentine." 74 CAPTURED CONVERSATION *Tf all the year you are loving and kind, Stockings full of presents on Christmas you'll find!" Tis this the mother tells them all the days ; They never, never doubt the thing she says. On the floor they sit in the early dawn, Otho and Will and Baby Joe. "Mother wants sleep, though it is Christmas morn ; Boys, we mustn't make noise you know." Around is scattered every kind of toy- Wise Santa knows just how to please ; *'He's the doodest old man !" says Baby Boy, And gives his stuffed dog a squeeze. A shining sword and gun Will views with pride. ''Just what I wanted him to bring ! Say, how can Santa down this chimney slide And get no soot on anything?" 75 'Will, I believe that's one thing I can't tell — It's something very strange to me ; But there's much we'll not understand right well Till we have learned Philosophy." Oh little boys ! Oh happy days at home When Santa down the chimney goes ! Whenever from that hearthstone you must roam Where Life its bright face only shows, May you remember what from Her you hear (Her knowledge cometh from above) : 'Not love of wisdom will make all things clear ; But wisdom born of perfect Love. 'In coming years if you're loving and kind, Not presents, always, but Love will you find. When this thing you have learned then will you see That you have learned the true Philosophy." 76 A LITTLE PIG TALE Of that young pig you should hear Whose home was at Bell's, In an inclosure quite near Where little Fred dwells. In the garden at all hours And in the front yard ! To root up all the flowers This piggy tried hard. Through the front door all unafraid He'd walk in the house ; Twas then ''Little Mother" said, "Make him into souse !" ''Father" cut him in the throat, And took out his brains ; To make use of every part There were spared no pains. 17 Fred claimed the tail as his own — Near piggy he'd stood; 'Somebody by me is known To whom 'twill taste good." He sent Aunt Nell the pig's tail In a box quite big, And received by return mail Her "Tale of a Pig." 'Let all piggies learn," wrote she, "From this Httle tale That theirs the same fate will be Some day without fail. Tf they continue rooting And going in the house, They will quickly go scooting Into sausage and souse. 'And if their tails come to me — Whenever it's done. They mayn't think so, but they'll see- I'll eat every one !" 78 PING PONG AT BAYLOR Mary and Delia Peeping in the Faculty Room. ''Delia, how that ball does bound ! Just listen to the pretty sound ! They've been playing all day long At the game they call Ping Pong." ''Don't touch the table ! Stand this way !" That's what they hear Miss Emma say. "Just look at me !" Miss Jennings said, "Pm all grace," then tossed her head. "But if you want to hit the balls Just do like me," another calls. "Pm the one who makes it spin. Play like Meiners, then you'll win !" "The teachers think it is great fun — But they're leaving now. In let's run ! We can keep up that sing-song ; Whew ! Easy thing to play Ping Pong." 79 'Delia, hold your paddle tight ! You do not send the ball just right! It always runs the table o'er, And then falls right down on the floor/ 'It's when you play the ball goes wrong. Oh ! Mary, I don't like Ping Pong ! You somehow hit the ball too hard — It's so much nicer in the yard !" 'I wonder why they like it so? Now, you've sent the ball too low ! This game is such a tiresome thing, Please, let's go out doors and swing !" 80 WHAT SHELLO LIKED BEST A glove which from her hand did fall Dropped on the floor out in the hall ; When next 'twas seen by owner fair She had to view it with great care To find out what that thing could be Minus the thumb and fingers three. Shello came in with broad dog smile And wagging tail — quite free from guile, Though he'd remained just out of sight Till home the master came at night. Her tale of woe the mistress told ; The master laughed. ''Now, don't you scold ! You're not to blame, are you, Shello? Hungry, weren't you ? My poor fellow ! Now, what's the best you've had to-day ? Oh, oh! 'Lady-fingers,' did you say?" LIKE DR. TOOTS A True Story. I "I wish you were like Dr. Toots," she said Quite earnestly to Grace one day. "Why should I be that ?" asked the little maid, Then thought, " 'Tis an odd thing to say." To mother's wishes she ever deferred, Always with her she would agree. But — "like him who to her ne'er spoke a word ! Why ? How ?" Grace didn't at all see. II "When I am sick, he stays beside my bed, You oft forget me in your play; Sometimes, I want a drink" — Grace hung her head, Not one word in reply could say. "Remember, by him not a train was missed, When home was coming our 'Queen' ; Down at the station, when all you had kissed, ■His was the happiest face seen. Ill "Few, on cloudy nights, church service attend, Get themselves wet they do not dare — One's zeal our pastor can warmly commend, Once, 'Toots was the only soul there.* 82 When I go shopping, Dr. Toots goes too — My buggy's guard, be it confessed ; He looks so fierce, and makes such great ado, That none dare my parcels molest. IV * When with the choir, that day in church you sang. How very delighted he seemed ! Once, o'er the others your voice clearly rang, Then how brightly his brown eyes beamed ! Proudly he looked 'round to see if, perchance, All proper attention did lend ; Yet, you deigned to give not even a glance To him, your dumb, devoted friend. V Tor you, I really think, if there were need, His own life would freely be given ; Because of Dr. Toots Grace takes scant heed, He is often to hunger driven." 'Mamma, forgive me ! I'm sorry truly," — On her lash there gleamed a tear, — T shall ask the Doctor's pardon, surely ; I have been naughty, quite, I fear. Although I never, never did strike him — What is your meaning now I see ; Only a little black dog, yet, like him, I faithful and loving can be." 83 JACK, MY DOG. Miss Fan, loquitur : Of the trio we have had (Species — Canis, quadruped ) Jack's the best it seems to me. (Right down yonder by the fence!) He possesses hard horse sense Tho' without a pedigree. Handsome was the dog Shello; Toots, a musical fellow. Jack is not a prodigy ; Yet, you'd marvel if I told Of his cute tricks manifold — You must love him if you see. Grabs men by the trouser leg, ''Call your dog away !" they beg. 'Tis a girls' school well he knows. If a lady's step is heard (Do believe me every word!) Pretty manners then he shows. 84 In the office, rainy days, By the desk my good friend stays — - Feels I need some company. It warms the cockles of my heart In such devotion to have part; I feed him ; but — he loves me. If there is a heaven for dogs Far above these earthly fogs (Thus thought — wasn't it? — Agassiz), I know Jack will have a place, (Nig, you ought to wash your face!) Because of his fidelity. 85 ADDRESS OF WELCOME Open Session of the Strictly Secret Society. You'd scarce expect those of our age To entertain upon this stage, And on such things to lay much stress ; But — you don't know the S. S. S. We're youngest of the orders here, Our hearts are brave, we do not fear ; Much youthful vigor we possess — We little ones, the S. S. S. We welcome all, both young and old ; Our story's short — 'twill soon be told. And may it none of you depress — That's not the aim of S. S. S. Perhaps you think we'll tell our name — We can't do that, 'twould spoil our fame ; But, if you can, you sure may guess What mean the letters S. S. S. 'Tall oaks from little acorns grow," The saying is. Although quite slow. We dare to say that we'll progress — We'll make it great, our S. S. S. 86 TWO ROSES Morning. — In the school-room. "We bring you these, dear teacher," Said Floy and Blanche one day, Coming in quickly to greet her, And on her desk to lay Two roses — Floy's, dark, rich crimson- Health's roses lit her cheek ; Alike in hue the red-brown hair And eyes that almost speak. Lily-faced Blanche, with purple eyes. Near by the teacher stood, Holding one, on which dew-drops shone- A moss-rose, pearly-hued. 'Tn our home garden, once, these grew— My mother chose their place," The teacher said, then softly kissed Each beaming, flow'r-like face. 87 "In Earth's first garden, long ago, The roses all were white. As sinless beings, radiant With fair, celestial light; Till one, like this with velvet leaves, Touched by Eve's finger tips. Thrilled ; grew rosy, as with pleasure, When kissed by ripe, red lips. "There, too, is a pretty legend, I've heard the Germans tell. About this beautiful moss-rose My mother loved so well. 'Once, to the earth came an angel. On Mercy's mission sent; To the wails of human mis'ry Attentive ear he lent. ' 'He saw, ah, much that grieved him. But what most pained his heart, Mankind forgot their Brotherlove — In quarrels oft took part. Hungry, and foot-sore, and weary. As of our Lord was said. This Heaven-sent guest was given Nowhere to lay his head. 'Into a garden then he went, Oppressed by sorrow deep, The rose-tree spread wide its branches, Wooing to restful sleep. With head, by violets pillowed. He dreamed, on dewy bed, Till the eastern sky grew rosy — The birds their matins said. 'Then to the pitying flowers, Ere winging flight above, He promised a lasting token Of God's unchanging love. Now, on leaf and stem of rose-bush. The soft, green moss grows 'round — A cradle for new-born roses, Daintiest ever found. *To violets clings the sweetness still. Given to them that day ; Hidden 'neath thorny shrub, they glad The passer's weary way.' And we know to human flowers God gives His loving care — Lives that are spent in doing good Exhale a perfume rare." 89 FATHER AND CHILD 'My father, stay with Baby, please !" He heard her Httle, pleading cry. He saw the dimpled, outstretched arms. And bending down, thus made reply : The bread's to earn, you must be fed, My pretty, blue-eyed lady; Now, don't you know that if I could, I'd always stay with Baby ?" But ever midst the burdens grave Which he, through all the day must bear, Rang echoes of his darling's voice, As floating strains of music rare. He smiled to think, ere set of sun. She'd greet him at his gate, maybe, With gladsome shout from red lips sweet, ''Now Father'll stay with Baby !" That day the gleaming gates of pearl Our Heavenly Father opened wide, And there among the shining throng Made room for one more little child. A vision still of outstretched arms Is luring him Life's upward way. On to the islands of the blest Where "Father will with Baby stay." 90 TWO PICTURES Through flow'ring jessamine vine the moon- beams fall In lace-like fleckings on the floor ; From waving cherry-bough and oak tree tall The liquid notes of mockbirds pour. The warmth and fragrance and the music — all — The glory of the summer night reveals. At mother's knee, beside the open door, And clasping father's hand, he kneels, Low lisping, "Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep." II A cold and stormy winter's day is done. In Life's hard battles wounded sore, Within that room where Life for him begun, He lies beside Death's open door. He hears the sobbing of his little son. Toward anguished wife the dying eyes are turned ; Then — back in childhood's realm he is once more — His lips repeat the prayer first learned : "I know, I knozv the Lord His child will keep, And now — I lay me — down — to — sl-e-e-p." 91 TO DREAMLAND SENT 'Drowsing in that golden sea Where the reahns of Dreamland be." Eugene Field. The mother gently rocked her child to rest, And downward o'er the cradle bent ; On rosebud mouth were kisses softly pressed As she the babe to Dreamland sent. Visions bright and fair the little one had As gaily she through dream realms went. What there was seen and heard will make hearts glad That she was off to Dreamland sent. Roused in the dewy morn by mother's song Which with bird carols sweetly blent — 'Tis this that's told in the cycle of song We here have called "To Dreamland Sent." 95 SLEEP, MY SWEET The golden sun has sunk quite far Adown the glowing west, And little birds are twitt'ring low In warm and downy nest ; While floating near on sunset clouds Are hosts of rosy dreams, A-coming to all little ones On whom the moonlight beams. Now cuddle down^ my baby sweet, And go to sleep, my dear ; There's naught of harm can come to thee, Thy mother's ever near. Down the walls the moonbeams creep, Oh sleep, my sweet. Oh sleep ! 96 TO THE DARK, DARK WOODS Baby's kitten soft and white As gently as he could, Took her on his back and ran, Out to the dark, dark wood. Up to the top of tallest tree — High, so high, he went ! Out to the end of slender limb Which swayed, and swayed, and bent. Kitty spied a shining ball Which might his play suit well, Springing then to catch the star, Down, down, the baby fell. 97 MORNING-GLORY VISION Morning-glories climbed the wall To see a baby fair, Sweetly smiling in her crib Mid dreams of angels rare. Secrets sweet the flower fays breathed Into her dainty ear, Rosy fingers clasped the vines That came so very near. Slipping down she softly dropped Into a crimson flower ; Sipping fragrant dew she passed A merry, joyous hour. Moonbeams chased her from her bower Which shone so brightly red, Now when the wondering eyes unclose She's in a warm white bed. 98 A RAINBOW GAY A rainbow gay picked up the babe, And sailed away with her To land her in a coral shell, Where golden treasures were. Just at the end of this bright arch Her fairy bark was hung. And baby clutched at daisies white As on through space she swung. She in this pretty tinted boat Sailed far into the west. Oh! will she ever, ever come Back to her downy nest? 99 WAKE, OH WAKE! Wake, oh wake, love, my pretty blue-eyed dear ! Dreaming sweet dreams you have passed the night. Caroling song-birds, hear, oh hear, oh hear ! Fill o'er with melody morning bright. Sweet, sweet the coral lips by kisses pressed, Opening now to tell the secrets deep Of witching flower fairies who, in their jest. Smiling wooed you into dreamy sleep. Now, on daisies white and roses red, Glistening dew-drops gleam like jewels rare. It is time to leave your soft white bed, Vanished now your dreams, can you say where ? 100 MAIDA'S DREAMS As Maida munched, 'neath spreading shade. Some candy from molasses made, Smearing her hands as well as nose, And streaky making her nice white clothes. She felt that clean were hands and face — Of candy was not left a trace. Down at her side she thought she saw A long-haired poodle sucking his paw. ''You horrid dog !"— an angry blow— "How could you dare to lick me so?" Next Maida heard, in great surprise, The brown-faced doll, with staring eyes, Keep saying to her clear but low, "I told you so ! I told you so !" "You told me what?" she faintly gasped. "Although you hold your book quite fast The study-hour is long since o'er ; I said you'd fall asleep once more And would, thus, off to Dreamland go. To which you— naughty girl— said, "No 1" lOl The candy man with cheeks bright red, With plume-trimmed hat upon his head, Hopped down from off the mantel shelf And came to greet her own sweet self. With open mouth she took him in, Not thinking that it was a sin Until he screamed, as he went down, With noise enough to rouse the town, *'To think the child would treat me so ! I never dreamed she was my foe." And then she saw through windows bright A thousand forms like poodles white. And brown-faced dolls, and candy men — It seemed to her like millions ten — Come in, the room, climb on the bed. Troop o'er her body, e'en her head. With glee they said, as they passed o'er, ''She might have known we'd cause her woe !' Tho' dreadful 'twas to Maida then. Soon she began to dream again. I02 A QUEEN'S PLAINT Suggested to Louise of America by Gustav Richter's Portrait of Queen Louise. ''Art grieved or sorrowful about something?" Queen Louise of Prussia was asked by the King. "Descending the stair I should not be seen — Ah! What's the profit in being a queen?" "Mein Liehchen," slowly spoke the august spouse, Love in all hearts will you ever arouse ; That face by art of limner eternized — Was such by a woman ever despised ? "Forever will you stand on the marble stair, Glorious Queen of Hearts with beauty rare ; Of your coiffure and robe of wondrous make Aye ! Millions of women will notice take." "Ach! Can you not see, gracious sire," she said. And leaned on his shoulder her regal head, "That my royal attire is not complete ? I have inelegant shoes on my feet !" 103 DISAPPOINTMENT She had just been reading of Cyrano, The man who went to the moon, And, lying there, she decided to go, Although 'twas the hour of noon. "And every girl will envy me," she thought, "Of course, 'twill be known quite soon, That this little hand has truly been sought By the real Man-in-the-Moon." Now, how it was done she never could tell — Accounts of it are shady — But she went and looked, and — ^backward she fell, For — Luna is a lady! 104 nJilii^MiililM i;;-l! LIBRARY OF CONGRESS illlllliilllllllllllliiy:y[:JII::|llL 018 395 400 3 *