Volume I Part 28 (1/2)

But the best is probably ”Grinn & Barrett.”

Walter G. Doty [1876-

A LITTLE PAGE'S SONG (13th Century)

G.o.d's lark at morning I would be!

I'd set my heart within a tree Close to His bed and sing to Him Right merrily A sunrise hymn.

At night I'd be G.o.d's troubadour!

Beneath His starry walls I'd pour Across the moat such roundelays He'd love me sure-- And maybe praise!

William Alexander Percy [1885-

HOW THE LITTLE KITE LEARNED TO FLY

”I never can do it,” the little kite said, As he looked at the others high over his head; ”I know I should fall if I tried to fly.”

”Try,” said the big kite; ”only try!

Or I fear you never will learn at all.”

But the little kite said, ”I'm afraid I'll fall.”

The big kite nodded: ”Ah well, goodby; I'm off;” and he rose toward the tranquil sky.

Then the little kite's paper stirred at the sight, And trembling he shook himself free for flight.

First whirling and frightened, then braver grown, Up, up he rose through the air alone, Till the big kite looking down could see The little one rising steadily.

Then how the little kite thrilled with pride, As he sailed with the big kite side by side!

While far below he could see the ground, And the boys like small spots moving round.

They rested high in the quiet air, And only the birds and the clouds were there.

”Oh, how happy I am!” the little kite cried, ”And all because I was brave, and tried.”

Unknown

THE b.u.t.tERFLY AND THE BEE

Methought I heard a b.u.t.terfly Say to a laboring bee; ”Thou hast no colors of the sky On painted wings like me.”

”Poor child of vanity! those dyes, And colors bright and rare,”

With mild reproof, the bee replies, ”Are all beneath my care.”