Part 105 (1/2)

While some with bright scythe, singing shrill to the tone, The tall gra.s.s and b.u.t.tercups mow, Some spread it with rakes, and by others 't is thrown Into sweet smelling c.o.c.ks in a row.

Then since joy and glee with activity join, This moment to labor I'll rise; While the idle love best in the shade to recline, And waste precious time as it flies.

--_Jane Taylor_,

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[Ill.u.s.tration]

Music for ”The Star”

[End ill.u.s.tration]

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THE STAR

Twinkle, twinkle, little star How I wonder what you are!

Up above the world so high, Like a diamond in the sky.

When the blazing sun is gone, When he nothing s.h.i.+nes upon, Then you show your little light, Twinkle, twinkle, all the night.

Then the traveler in the dark Thanks you for your tiny spark.

He could not see which way to go, If you did not twinkle so.

In the dark blue sky you keep, And often through my curtains peep; For you never shut your eye Till the sun is in the sky.

As your bright and tiny spark Lights the traveler in the dark, Though I know not what you are, Twinkle, twinkle, little star.

--_Jane Taylor_.

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THE FLOWER AND THE LADY, ABOUT GETTING UP

Pretty flower, tell me why All your leaves do open wide, Every morning, when on high The n.o.ble sun begins to ride.

This is why, my lady fair, If you would the reason know, For betimes the pleasant air Very cheerfully doth blow.

And the birds on every tree Sing a merry, merry tune, And the busy honey bee Comes to suck my sugar soon.

This is, then, the reason why I my little leaves undo.

Little lady, wake and try If I have not told you true.

--_Jane Taylor_.

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THE FIELD DAISY

I'm a pretty little thing, Always coming with the spring.

In the meadows green I'm found, Peeping just above the ground; And my stalk is covered flat With a white and yellow hat.