[Illustration]

Too late! alas their call is vain!
He swiftly disappears!
His kind forethought
Is dearly bought,
It melts them unto tears.

But sturdy Peg is quick to act,
She gives an order clear,
"Creep on your knees,
And by degrees
We to the hole will steer."

[Illustration]

They reach in time, Peg drags him out
With all her might and main;
Poor "Golliwogg",
A dripping log,
Must be got home again.

Behold sure signs of early dawn,
As down the field they start;
A leaden weight,
This living freight,
With faintly beating heart.

[Illustration]