ROMEO AND JULIET, ETC. 215 



"But, Hope, you have two letters," Fred said, 

 looking slyly at another paper in "Ward's hand. 



" No, not as you think ; it is a rhythm, you curious 

 imp." 



" May you read it ? " the Major smilingly in- 

 quired. 



" Surely, if you listen with becoming reverence ; 

 besides, it is in some sort a warning to bachelors." 



" In what way, Hope ? " 



"Just that the lines are by a young lady on the 

 occasion of leaving, for her marriage, the home of an 

 old bachelor uncle who had brought her up almost 

 from childhood. Annie is her friend, and also a 

 favourite with the old gentleman, so she was sent a 

 copy of the verse." 



"Oh, yes, I see; doting old uncle spoilt girl 

 trousseau farewell anticipated future, &c.> &c. 

 Proceed with the recitation, circumventor of grouse 

 cock." 



"Very good; then listen soberly." 



ON LEAVING MY UNCLE'S HOME, AND MY OWN,, 



The days when thy proud manhood shone, 



Have quickly passed, 



And time to find thyself alone 



Hath come at last. 



