AMERICAN ORNl THOL OGY. 



To finger tips thrilled with surprise, 

 I quickly hastened back to town; 



And to some wise friends bore my prize — 

 A captive worthy of renown. 



With bated breath, all neaier drew, 

 There cuddled in a soft brown ball — 



Exposed to our astonished view. 

 Lay — a black cat — and that was all. 



I started back with looks aghast. 

 All stared — but no one said a word, 



Till some one cried — "I know at last. 

 The mystery's solved, it's a cat bird." 



The kitten mewed, — Then I awoke, 



(Things are not always what they seem) 



Oh, no, my dears! This was no joke. 

 It all was true. But 'twas a dream. 



93 



GLEANINGS. 



"Beloved of children, bards and spring, 



O, birds, your perfect virtues bring — ■ 

 Your song, your forms, your rhythmic flight, 



Your manners for the heart's delight; 

 Nestle in hedge, in barn, or roof. 



Here weave your chamber weather proof. 

 Forgive our harms, and condescend 



To man, as to a lubber friend. 

 And generous, teach his awkward race 



Courage, and probity, and grace." 



— Emerson. 



