so pleased with it that I learned it by heart unconsciously, from
reading it over so often."

"Do repeat it, Mother," cried both the boys.

Mrs. Chilton then repeated the poem; and, as some of my young
readers may not be familiar with it, they shall have a copy, too.

"This, also, boys, is a true story," said their mother.



THE DOG AND THE WATER LILY.

NO FABLE.

The noon was shady, and soft airs
Swept Ouse's silent tide,
When, 'scaped from literary cares,
I wandered on his side.

My spaniel--prettiest of his race,
And high in pedigree--
(Two nymphs adorned with every grace,
That spaniel found for me--)

Now wantoned, lost in flowery reeds,
Now, starting into sight,
Pursued the swallow o'er the meads,
With scarce a slower flight.