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Tous les autres exemplaires originaux sont filmis en commen^ant par la premiere page qui comporte une empreinte d'impression ou d'illustration et en terminant par la derntire page qui comporte une telle empreinte. Un des symboles suivants apparaitra sur la dernidre image de cheque microfiche, selon le cas: le symbols —^ signifie "A SUIVRE", le symbols V signifie "FIN". Les cartes, planches, tableaux, etc., peuvent dtre ti!lm6s A des taux de r6duction diffdrents. Lorsque le document est trop grand pour dtre reproduit en un seul cliche, il est filmi d partir de Tangle supArieur gauche, de gauche d droits, et de haut en bas, en prenant la nombre d'images ndcessaire. Les diagrammes suivants illustrent la mdthode. 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 I I ' THE BROWNIES ABROAD BY PALMER COX ' I > ^«M>^U PUBLISHED BY THE CENTURY CO. NEW YORK v:-^^ : f Copyright, 1808, by Palmer Cox. Copyright, 1800, by The Century Co. Printed in U. S. A. m /^roionies. like fairies and ^ gol)ltns,ave imaginary little sprites, 10//0 are supposed to delight In harmless pranl{s and lieljoful deeds.Theyuork and sport lolfile weary /jouse- holds sleep, and neuer allou) ttiemselues to be seen hy mortal eyes. 4 1 1,1 CO:s'TENTS. i I 'i 1 FAGK The Brownies ox Board the Steamship The Brownies at the Zoo • • The Brownies Shoot the Net The Brownies at Flodden Field The Brownies Cutting Turf . • • • • • 9 . 17 24 . 31 ' *i The Brownies on the Thames PAUI 38 The Brownies at Waterloo . . 46 The Brownies on the Stage 56 The Brownies at the Lakes of Killarney 65 The Brownies at Golf >:y^ The Brownies at Chester • • 74 81 The Brownies at Glen-da-Lough 90 The Brownies' Fox-Hunt PACK . 97 The Brownies on the Appian Way . The Brownies Printing • • 112 The Brownies on Mount Vesuvius The Brownies' Century Run . . 126 ., ii The Brownies and the Tide . ;r The Brownies Shopping • • • . 138 ill #-^ BOOKS BY PALMER COX: PUBLISHED BY THE CENTURY CO THE BROWNIES: THEIR BOOK Qiuirtu, 150 pages. Price, in boards $1.50 ANOTHER BROWNIE BOOK Quarto, 150 p.igcs. Price, in boards. $1 so THE BROWNIES A I HOME Quarto, 150 pages. Price, in boards. .^1.50 THE BROWNIES AROUND "'"^^ THE WORLD Quarto, 150 pages. Price, in boards Sli.so I0:©!/, THE BROWNIES THROUGH THE UNION Quarto, 150 pages. Price, in boards, $1.50 m THE BROWNIES ABROAD i W"*^^' -' '''"^'^' '-''° P'''Kes. Price, in boards, $1.50 'M¥k THE BROWNIES IN THE ^^^ PHILIPPINES In Quarto, 150 pages. Price, in boards, $1.50 IHE BROWNIES LATEST ADVENTURES Quarto, 150 pages. Price, in boards. S1.50 ^"-^ THE BROWNIES MANY MORE NIGHTS Quarto, 150 pages. Price, in boards, $1.50 THE BROWNIE CLOWN OF ^^ ^^^ BROWNIEIOWN Oblong , 103 pages. Price, in boards, $1.00 ^W 4^^' "" ; THE BROWNIE PRIMER 1- i.i. . 108 |,a-e.v Price, m dotb. ^ .40 ,,^1. ^^^^m ^^^^^^^^^^^^^I^SS^Ik^^hj^i^^BH ^H«v ^v^*.^! \^ z-^ ^1 ON BOARD THE STEAMSHIP. o£ stately ship had turned her pi'ow For oeeaii wide the waves to plow ; The foaming wake that spread so white Already told the engine's might ; The sturdy crew so tried anod At various posts of duty stood; But from the skipper to tlie man Wlio greased the galley frying- i)an, Not one was witli the knowledge* stored That (umning i^rownies were aboard. In spite of guarding gangway plank, In s])ite of watehing ease and tank, In spite of shouts, " All those ashoi'e Not booked to eross the ocean o'er!" The Brownies in some way unknown . Had made the stately ship their own. I 'i: ON BOARD THE STEAMSHIP. Embedded in the vessel's coal, Where several members safely stole, Or hid in bales of merchandise, The Brownies feared no prying eyes, For not a soul, however bright. Upon that ship had second sight; And none can hope the veil to lift That screens the rogues, without that gift. When mists hung low around <»holeticl the uiortd rnai Tliosi _.,_.-.._ ^, world meir light Oftmustborrou) from Hie nigKt. And threatened to delay the trip, And seamen tried to penetrate The gloom that hid the narrow strait, The Brownies crept from bin and bale. From crates secured with screw and nail, From corners near and nooks remote, And from the davits swung a boat Well filled with members of the band, Who volunteered to bear a hand. ON BOARD THE STEAMSHIP. i" A line was fastened to the bow, And to the gig below, and now With mystic power they swiftly rowed, And through the fog the vessel towed. Strange thoughts indeed ran through the head Of those who stood in doubt and dread Upon the deck, to see her breast The waves while engines were at rest. Three times the captain orders gave To anchor cast, the ship to save; But changed as many times his mind When at the chart he looked to find 8he kept the proper course as fair As if the tiller were his care. But who can gage a mystic strength, Or strive by rules to fix the length To which it runs when great demands Are made on every pair of hands! M ;i f.fl I? '"\, I I ili > K ON BOARD THE STEAMSHIP. To even fish the sight seemed strange, Who, not prepared for sucli a eluiuge, Kept eyes upon tlie eaptani's gig Thus towing ronnd a sliip so big; And news soon circled tlirough tlie deep About the scene when, with a sweep That stirred the ocean to its bed. The smaller craft the greater led. At other times to boats they flew When fields of ice appeared in view, And from the vessel's course would shove The bergs that towered high above W^ith poles, and knees, and hands, and bnvist, And shoulders into service pressed. They moved the mass with mighty strain That almost grounded in the main. And safelv on her given wav The steamship ran without delay. At times some dynamite they tried, And ice was scattered far and wide, While wildly whirling through the air W^eiit walrus, seal, and polar bear. W^hiTi sea-fowl screamed before the sale The Brownies reefed the splitting sail, And lasluMJ the boats and hatch«-vs all. Lest mountain waves should on th(>m fall. At times, in rows along the rail, They watched the spouting of a whale, And told the spot where next he 'd show His h(^ad above the waves to blow. ON BOARD THE STEAMSHIP. Tlie eagl(^ from the azure sky Upon the ocean l)ent its eye, And marked the finny tril)es below, That move in k'gions to and fro. So Brownies, through some mystic spark, Can gaze into the waters dark, And note the fisli that scud around From cape to cape, from sea to sound, As plainly as if great and small Were hanging in a market stall, Or on a huckster's board were spread And with a price upon tlieir head. This gift induced the Brownies queer In ocean dei'p to often peer, And hold some conversation light About the fish that passed in sight. Said one : " How restless as the air Are those cold-blooded bone-freaks tlxn-e- Some formed as if the rogues esca])(*(l From nature's hand ere rightly shaped. And thus half made must ever glide A laughing-stock thrrought alarm to all the load. I \ y^,.,-,t.'\<:'"^ The ostrieh was no less a prize That soon attracted Brownie eyes; And yieldiuo- to their mystic hand, He humbly sat upon th(» sand Until enoug-h were })ooked to go To make his legs bend hke a bow. Thus, while the fini was at its height, And every face was smiliug bright. And nothing seemed to hover near To stop their sport or waken fear, 12 Hang down your tie.-id when omers sin: Remember nil the ujorid IS hln . THE BROWN I EH AT THE ZOO. f Sonic tr<>ul>l«' WHS not far removed That all their art and eunninj;' [)r<)ved. WhiU' fumhlinji; at a bolt or bar, By chance a j;ate was left ajar ; And seizing? their advantajz;e, soon Chimpanzee, monkey, and baboon fAkHSR Co/ '" Came trooping out, and lost no time. But here and tliere began to climb. A task before the Brow^nies spread From tree to shrub and tlower-bed 13 r i I THE BROWNIES AT THE ZOO. That fully taxed the hand and mind And all their native tact combined. Without a hook, or steel, or prod, A wooden club or iron rod. At once a general move was made To rectify the escapade. While through the trees some wildly chased, Around the houses others raced. With such an active swarm to hive They had to keep their wits alive; And never had that garden gi-een Revealed before so strange a scene. Those who pursue for many a mile The ape through Madagascar's isle, Explore the dark Brazilian shade To catch the creatures for the trade. Or in Australian bushes get The little whiskered marmoset, Had learned some points to help their case Could they have seen the flight and chase. No housetop was a safe retreat Where one might long maintain a seat, For Brownies like a vine can chmb Tlie smoothest wall of stone or lime. With bite and scratch that garments frayed, The work on hand was mucu delayed, Until at times it seemed as though Tlie morning sun his face would show Ere those evincing strength and rage Were safely lodged within their cage. 14 THE BROWNIES AT THE ZOO No ape could leap a garden bed By more than natural powers sped, Nor climb a wall or slippery limb With more than natural skill and vim, While Brownies ow^a a mystic gift Which gives them over all a lift. And so from branch and chimnt^y-top The chase went on, without a stop. A stranger, busier time than this Was never carried on, I wis. Some were submissive to their will, But others showed a temper ill, And set on freedom such a price They acted any way but nice. Though pulling back, resistin'g still. And chattering like a fanning-mill, No choice was left in mystic hands But to comply with all demands ; No pains or breaks the rogues endured; They simply were again secured. The minutes fled, and hours mn. too, Before the gathering in was through ; But to the Brownie band belongs The spirit that will right all wrongs. 15 Tis yrancl To spenU your Tirid Outright, 8ut first ninhe sure the door ■« insight. 1; '% i . ■l.: i. .Mi il THE BROWNIES AT THE ZOO. ^^ ^v- ?J^ 5 /< o ^ 8W> ^ «:, ■■ /,-, ././• '.'■:. '/'>■. (. ,.. -T//' ^ ''. ^rr'./fyW:/- •TTi =1— c To cage they led — no easy job — The long-tailed monkeys and the bob, And thnist them in behind the bars, To chatter at the moon and stars, Well pleased with sport the night had brought, And exercise they long had sought; For never had they so ninch air And freedom from tlieir prison fare. Such hide-and-seek and treatment mild Since they ran through their native wild. Then, turning quickly from the place, The band commenced the homeward rac(^ ; And, crowding through the tunnel dark, They left the Zoo and Regents Park. ffipimiiiii'iiil &« :'Ii r ^-, THE BROWNIES SHOOT THE NET. HE droning beetle's dismal 1mm Gave warning that the night had come, When out from nook and secret bower Came Brownies, watchful of the hour. Those who could boast a second sight Might have beheld the rovers bright Proceeding o'er the grassy lea The shortest way to reach the sea. When Brownies run there is a tear Across the ground, one can't compare To anything that moves without The aid of wings, the world about ; The gol)lin element subhme Is well detined at such a time, s'Ml THE BROWNIES SHOOT THE NET. ! \ I And he who tries a mate to find For such a fay will wreck his mind. Thus running, resting, chattering still, They passed the time away until The place was reached where every sprite Was pledged to show his mystic might. They stood above the town of Bray, That nestled by a pleasant bay, Where tourists often stop to rest And see old Ireland at its best. And as tliey paused their ready eye Saw nets were hanging out to dry, — For here some fishermen supplied The market of the countryside, — And sorely tempted were they all To shoot the net and make a haul. 18 - JVJifii^ ^^^^^ ^ yy w fe 4 A k ^-^ 5^ '5S' fS> ■^ '■ .■■ m 1 i^w 7? I li i THE BROWNIES SHOOT THE NET. In fact, so strong temptation pressed, They yielded, as might well be guessed ; ''i 1 . / , s For Brownies are like mortals still. In reason strong, but weak of will. Ere long a boat was ready made; In many a fold the nets were laid. For paying out as round they veered In circles when the spot was neared Where fish were likely to await The morning hour in drowsy state. The jiunping salmon signals set When it was time to shoot the net. A fish convention seemed to be In session in that part of sea. For those that seldom meet the sight Of fishermen now came to light. The weight within soon put to test The net, which was not of the best, 19 If lost your venture eat your cr"0>«J And by fbe banquet uJiser grou) *:i, I m n i ** )l ,%'^hy'M\ fl I THE BROWNIES SHOOT THE NET. And some got partly out, while more Escaped to see a foreign shore. The wondering Brownies from the boat Bent down the dift'erent fish to note ; Some from the deepest ocean bed, And more that in the breakers fed. The strange collection struggling there In narrow quarters made them stare. Said one : " If we had skill to draw The secret from each rascal's jaw. If they could wag their tongues as well As they can wag their tails, they 'd tell Us many things about the deep AVould shame imagination's sweep ; They 'd tell of ships that lie below As when they foundered years ago, The masts still pointing to the light From which they plunged that awful night, When from the ocean to the sky Went up the last despairing cry. There hermit-crabs are throned in state Where sat the captain and the mate ; The sculpin, shrimp, and meaner fry In lower hold and locker lie; While slimy things leave seaweed screens To breed in pots and soup-tin-eens." Another said : " The sea, my friend, Will keep the secret to the end ; : So x>i^dl away and let us land The heavy catch we have in hand." 20 n\ THE BROWNIES SHOOT THE NET. I But there was trouble brewing hot Above theii' heads they noticed not, While chatting in a friendly flow About the wonders down below. The sight of fish so quickly caught The birds from every quarter brought, And diving round to get their share They caused no small commotion there. Not waiting for the net to land, Nor even to be well in hand, They fastened on the struggling prey While in the tangling mesh they lay, 21 i.^Jl ;:'r ■ m 3? I ■!i 1 I .' 'li in i N I! i if 1> (■ I H THE BROWNIES SHOOT THE NET. And dragged it up with shriekings loud As if to hide it in a cloud. A stranger sight than th9+., I ween, 'Twixt sky and water ne'er was seen By those who have spent all their days In doubling capes or missing stays. It took good work to check the raid The starving flock so boldly made. In union there is strength, no doubt, For tyrants long since found it out; And here united wings perforce Did wonders in their upward course. The Brownies are not those that yield Their rights to everything afield, So still they fought, till yielding strands Returned once more to eager hands The major part when all was done; But many birds their breakfast won. The boats were promptly turned for shore With mystic strength at eveiy oar. 22 » THE BBOWFIES SHOOT THE NET. Before the koel had touched the sand Some anxious workers leaped to land, And waist-deep in the water wrought Till safe on shore the prize was brought. Then, as the east was growing red, The Brownies from the city fled. But hardly was the treasure beached Before the news all quarters reached; To Dublin Bay, to high Bray Head, To inland towns the story spread, For people told each one they met The Brownie Band had shot the net. And made a haul to shame the most Successful men along the coast. Then bags and baskets soon were got, And people hastened to the spot To pick them freely from the ground While still alive and flopping round. Then meat was stricken from the card, And fish-heads grinned in every yard. And travelers through those parts declare The scent of fish was in the air; For fish was roasted, boiled, and fried, At morning, noon, and eventide. Not allcanspeaK fo mov/e tbelyeart, But nil should do 1tl«ir lifHe part. J.( ;l'ii- ;l'|; as i p: i.£^ ^^^^^m THE BROWNIES AT FLODDEN FIELD. golden clouds the god of day- Had wrapped his form and slipped away, And Luna, queen of night, unfurled Her' banner o'er a slumbering world, When Brownies lightly took their way Till Flodden Field before them lay. Old Norham Castle's ruins vast Upon them frowned as they went past; The round moon threw a mellow hght Upon the walls that, still upright, Reveal a strength that w^ell might cause The Brownies in their run to pause. At double-quick they gained the ridge. Across the Till, by Twizel Bridge, They formed a wide, respectful ring Around the stone where died the king. Said one : "This st(me we here behold So firmly planted in the mold, 24 fi THE BROWNIEH AT FLODDEN FIELD. i , M With rude inscription overspread, Marks where poor Scotland lost her head, While from the fatal field of gore Sonic faithful Scots their sovereign bore." The Brownies rambled round a space To find the cross of stone in place That marked the ^,,„_„^ spring in Flodden vale According to the /^ ^1 ^v poets' tale. The stone with its /<^»Bs>^K| \ inscinption old Had disappeared, ^Vm^^\ 1 ^^^ water cold Still trickled down \ >J>J > V/ ^^® narrow glade As when at eve \''-*~-^r"-'':'*>/ the noble maid Ran with the casque " for water bright, In answer to the dying knight. 25 ;'Mi 4.. « * 1 THE BUOWNIEH AT PLODDEN FIELD. 1 * ir " i^ The bird Miat Sings upon the brier Is often mute behindHip wire. The Brownies drank from tlmt cool rill While talking? of the battle still, Home scooping water in the uand With proper cart; like (Hdeon's band, While others, lying on the bank With face to lipple, quickly drank. Said one : " Who seeks a better drink Than this, my friends, should pause and think. For many a man to ruin went Because with water not (content — That honest draft that will not pitch The home-retuniing in the ditch, Or lead his feet to paths of sin To shame himself and all his kin." Said one, as he with sparkling eye Addressed a gi'oup that gathered nigh : ''At every turn from Tweed to Till The poet's stanzas haunt you still. With such a graphic pen he spread The story that the world has read. You pick out for yourself the place Where Lady Clare with pallid face Looked on the battle in dismay, Until the stubborn ranks gave way. You hear not birds in hedges pipe. Nor mark the grain for sickle ripe, For other sight and sound, I ween. Will for the moment crowd between. '20 THE UUOWNlfcS AT FLODDEN FIELD. •^? Now loud and wild, in fancy's ear, The Border slogan's tones you hear. And battle-ciy, while pennons gay Are wnving in the thickest fray." Applying nimble hands and knees, They cUmbed at once some neighboring trees, To view the field from side to side Where England won and Scotland died, And muse upon the fearful rout That woeful day saw carried out. Said one : " A better view we 're bound To have from here than from the ground ; And when I start upon the quest Of something good, I want the best. Let others be content to squat Upon a stone; it suits me not. 27 x7^ '"»'V -•^''' "-'v^/ - I \\ •J II "••^^^^mi^^^'mam^^^'wmm THE BROWNIES AT FLODDEN FIELD. And if there is the slightest cliance, I '11 struggle for a bird's-eye glance." Anothr^r said : " J 'm with you there. Give me the view from upper air; To sit on ciagL> or lofty trees, See nature as the eagle sees It stretching out in light and shade, With shimmering stream and somber glade. Is pleasure that you '11 hardly gain Through open door or window-pane." If I ii I * ^'''•'^*^' ■"-'■ >*/>Lrien cox. The Western world is not alone The place on earth where trees are blown 28 i i;: II » THE BROWNIES AT FLODDEN FIELD. Across the country, branch and root, Till whirling to the clouds they shoot. Now, while the Brownies seemed to be From every hint of danger free, Some trouble was about to light And mar the pleasure of the night. A stronger wind than swiftly broke Ne'er wrestled with a Border oak. First leaves gave out, then twigs let go. Then roots began to groan below, Which told the trial was too keen For them to longer lie unseen. The earth began to heave around, The tree-tops nigher stoop to ground. At last they leaped from soil and sand Across the heath with half the band. The creatures that had made their nest Within the tree, scared with the rest, Deserted beds in wild despair. With loss of feathers and of hair. The scene was wild, and wilder still It grew as they whirled o'er the hill And took direction of the Tweed That swept around a sloping mead. Through every mind the question passed ilovv long the fearful gale would last. Would it continue till they rolled A struggUng mass in water coldf Or would it haply diii av/ay While yet the groui.d beneath them lay? 'A !;- ::i.' (i 'i: ■lU: ) ii li 1 til! f \ THE BROWNIES AT FLODDEN FIELD. |! I i I « But while revolving in the mind These questions of a vital kind, The onward joui'uey was maintained Until the brink indeed was gained. Upon the bank a few were thrown, And more the river's depth were show n; fcii COf. lit Some swam with skill, while others found Such things as freshets b.iug around When floods o'ersprcad the cultured lea And dooryard treasures start for sea. Then, like the beaten host of yore That sought at night the Scottish shore. The Brownies quit the famous land And left it to the peasant's hand. 30 HU i • \ r:. ItH THE BROWNIES CUT^riNG TURF. m ] that the day begins to draw To evening, and to nature's law The birds and beasts respectful bend And to their dens or perches wend, The Brovmies, watchful of the hour, Grow eager to display their po^'er, And with impatience ill concealed Await their time to take the field. They never met so strong of hand As when the lively goblin band Assembled once in spirits light At cutting turf to spend the night. Behind them dark against the cloud A castle stood, no longer proud Witli banners bright and towers strong. And inmates filled with wine and song; 81 .1 !■ .8 Hi- m.^ m m THE BROWNIES CUTTING TURF. !' If frown you must Rteuery tasK, Iyi mercy wear « smiling mask. For long before in ruin's name The owl and bat had filed their claim. Said one: "How fortunate are we Who in all things some pleasure see! Could mortals be content to face Their toil and sport with equal grace, How lightly would the day go by To thousands who now fret and sigh! If labor by some happy chance Could to the pleasure-line advance, How fast the pegs would find the shoe, And stit''bes nm through garments new! There wo: ^ music in the plane To shame th tenor's sweetest strain. And peals of laughter in the saw To rival childhood's rich guffaw, And in the anvil's clanging knells, The melody of Shandon bells. Oh, happy is the mortal wight If in his labor lies delight ! He readily will understand The spirit of the Brownie band. The task we have to-night in mind Is work of the laborious kind. But who could pass from side to side Across a land with turf supplied, And not be quick to take the spade To give deserving people aidf What member of the band has not Heard tales about potato-rot, 32 THE BKOWNIES CUTTING TURF. And routs, nnd taxes overdue, Tlijit to the poor is notliing new? 1 'ni not a stranger to the kind Of work tliat here to-night we find, And can some liints to those impart Who are not practised in the art. Full many a fall the infant knows Before upon its feet it goes; 80 many a set-back one must feel Before he proves his strength and zeal. At starting in we 're somewhat late, But tliat Antli us has httle weight; The rat that 's last to cut the sack May l«'ave the mill with greatest pack. hin 1 1, f ! \'H I ill. m ' H )|,1 V»». '"^li'ir^^ cox ^^s^fet** ^^xVvMvvVKvfN^lxS;^^^^ A --^ssi^^s. -. 33 ^HE BROWNIES CUTTING TURF. 1 ! *i fi il , * So those who late in life begin May be the first to honor win." Then work in earnest was the cry, As here and there the Brownies spry Went scattering round the neighboring knd To gather tools for work in hand. How can we crowd in language strong i^he praise that to the sprites belong 1? There 's not a look or word they give But should in printed volumes live; There 's not a pose they strike or hold But sculptors might with profit mold; And not a hvely race they start But does invite the painter's art. Ere long they brought without a pause Such things as would advance their cause, 34 m THE BROWNIES CUTTING TURF. And each his mystic power revealed In cutting turf around the field. Some, eager to perform their share, Displayed a somewhat reckless air, But, light of heart, the danger by. The lesson one would thus apply: " The trials that on us descend May prove but blessings in the end; The fowl that roosts on highest rail May be most shaken by the gale, But she '11 be farthest fi'om the fox Who comes to get his Christmas box ; Ho, those who 've rolled in such a mire Will not be first to catch on fire. In fact, 't is danger keeps us wise And on our guard against suiprise. Without it we might careless grow And fall a prey to every foe. The one who never felt mishap WiU be the first fruit of the trap. While those who 're scored and scarified By trials will move open-eyed. The cat that leaves the hearth ablaze Will shun it well in after days; The fish that felt the prick of hook Will not be first to reach the cook; The fox that once lived through the dose Will alw^ays scan his dinner close; And thus we learn through danger still To sharpen wits and strengthen will. 'h m '■'.<. Ill 35 Ir' THE BROWNIES CUTTING TURr. r i:'i it ' Yes, through our faiUiigs oft we spy- Just where we need to fortify; No better school can nature give To teach one how to rightly live, And little hope we entertain For those who graduate in vain." A dozen donkeys small of size, But with a strength to wake surprise, The Brownies into service pressed. And gave the creatures little rest. Like bees when summer sends a thrill Through every sense, and every hill 3tt THE BROWNIES CUTTING TUEF. m G« rvervtndy To dispnTcli All buiin»sawh ('any out a scheme That liad already been tlieir tlienie. Awhile they paused to throw an eye Upon the stream tljat hun'ied by, So dark where 'neath a biidge it passed. And bright where on its waves were cast The silver ravs from Luna's face, Who now commenced her upward race. Said one: "For all the laws laid down About a meeting in the town Without a permit from some head, We 're safely here, our faces spread Witli smiles, which prove no shade of fear Can darken long a conscience clear. This river wide which checks our pace Has been the scene of many a race, Where college crews their muscles strained To prove who most was skilled or trained. Now we, who also sport can take Upon a stream or glassy lake, 39 ill ill III 'i I I iH :i, I M I V i i >' I ■ H THE UROWNIKH ON THK THAMKS. Will not 1)0 slow in gcttini;- ont A tk>«'t of boats kept horcabont, Of cvci'v slm[)(' and ovoiy lonutb, To try our skill as well as stronuth ; And up to Putnt'V bridge ^vo '11 no. To Haunnersniitb, if tinio is so That we can niako the homeward nui And leave the boats ere night is done." The Brownies soon make up their mind On questions of this stirring kind. The ])oats were found of every size That such a eity front supplies, Some wide enough to comfoi't give To those who hoped for y(»ars to live. And others of sueli naiTOw beam It soemed like sitting in the stream; But evrrv meml)er of the band On something i)ushed away from land, An: < THE BROWNIES ON THE THAMES. To see tlie Brownies on the land Engaged in enterprises grand Must still give pleasure and impart Delight to every cheerful heart; But brig! iter does tlie picture show When out upon the waves they go, Where chilling dangers that attend The expedition have no end. Sometimes upon a seat they 'd crowd, With little space for each allowed, And tliose upon the outer side Were ill at ease throughout the ride. 42 ra THE BROWNIES ON THE THAMES. But let no reader be misled, Nor think a sad mishap or dread Of future trouble can destroy Beyond repair the Bt cwnies' joy. Said one: "We meet distress, 't is true, And some have more than they can do A seal upon the boat to hold; But still, when all is done and told, The exercise and hours of fun Outweigh our troubles ten to one. And who would waiit to leave the race Upc^Ti the shore to take his place, And stare with dull, lack-luster eye Upon his comrades sweeping by? N<>; rather let us stick and cling. And hold to life by merest string, Than have a single active sprite Avoid the trials of the night." At times the race was close and fine. With bows across in even line, And then collisions, brought about Through some mistaken word, no doubt. Would bring a halt to three or four And change the course of many more. Then blame on others would be laid With much ado, and charges made; For Brownies in this way, we find, Are not unlike the human kind. But quiet soon would settle down, And niddy faces lose the frown ; y. ! 1 fli 43 '.I THE BRCWNIES ON THE THAMES. is f ,3 I- ! For no hard feelings long can hide The smile which is a Brownie's pride. The turning-point at length was made, But not a moment there they stayed; All rounding to the city sped, Still straining for the place ahead. New trouble rose while homeward bound. When boats a strange position found. 44 1 If uirTuee only were your lonct You'd travel liglifly onyour roadl- THE BROWNIES ON THE THAI^IES. Some, lifted by a driving scow, Were borne for rods upon the bow, With all the oarsmen seated right, But much disturbed in such a plight. Tjoe sun already gave a hint Of coming glory in the tint That crept along the eastern sky, As Scotland Yard they paddled by. They saw policemen watching out For river thieves that prowl about To plunder boats and barges round While honest folk are sleeping sound; And well they knew it was no place For them to pause or end their race, So down the stream they lield their way, Until the wharf before them lay From which they made the early start. And then each Brownie did his part In making headway for the land With all the speed he could command. To lertvo the pier, and homeward fare To suh retreat, was next their '-are; And through Mieir mystic naiure strange They soon were out of mortal range. ^ Yn^^iffTfrtrtf. V\ - J % i 'A - W' 46 I; ^'''■'^l/t CO*. . I ti I) i ' I I It i. THE BROWNIES AT WATERLOO. HE creeping gloom of night had won The town abandoned by the sun. In quiet homes the key was :m*ned; The evening fire to ashes burned; The clock was wound, the Book was read, The world was narrowed to a bed ; When out in all their mystic might The Brownies came with faces bi'ight. Now full before the eager band Stood Brussels, with its palace grand, Its stately halls and temples fine, And gardens rich witli tree and vine. Around a shaft that towered white. Which marked the city's central site. The Brownies stood with wondering eyes, Commenting on its grace and size. Said one: "No doubt this pile so great Was fashioned to commemorate The victory that brought renown To Wellington, and saved the town. 46 < IB! ^m THE BROWNIES AT Wa-EBLOO. 'T was fit that all should thanks bestow On those who held aloof the foe." The Brownies' spirit soon was shown; For, closing round, not one alone, But half the land, with one intent Began to climb the monument. Now, chnging with a mystic gift Of strength to every ridge or rift, They round and round the column strained Until the top at length was gained. This led to talk of Waterloo, And so their interest wider grew, Until a visit to the field Was all that would enjoyment yield I. As through the wood that stood between The city and the famous scene 47 •*/ !i){ M I i t ( I, THE BROWNIES AT WATERLOO • ^ a;i ii"; ^1 When you wont blood sti*cl Send brajemcn THE BROWNIES AT WATERLOO. " At last," said one, "it is our lot To ^aze iTX>on this famous spot ; And this the thought that comes to all Who journey here : the held, how small ! Two miles by one would fully bound On every side the battle-ground. But every inch of this green space Saw foemen struggling face to face, . ';.* ! While shook the earth beneath the tread Of charging hosts or falling dead." Around the plain the Brownies went, On seeing every point intent. They picked up bones that still could show The ball that laid the soldier low. And w^ere not slack a skull to spy That missed the relic-hunter's eye, Though generations three or four In turn had searched those acres o'er To find a bonis a ball, or blade Which in the strife a part had played. 40 ^i;^^^ J ■-■- k m m I ( 1 '■%' THE BROWNIES AT WATERLOO M (I i I ' But who can hope to have a sight Accorded to a Brownie bright, Or note so well the things that lie Around them as they joui-ney by? That eye for mystic service planned Has rays we may not understand Nor hope to im- itate, howe'er Into the world ^E, around we stare. '^ -v^^^ i^'^fc Vi Said one : " My friends, this eai-then mound From which we view the field around Was raised to mark, as I opine, The center of the English line, Which either side was stretched away A mile or so in bright aiTay. so 1 THE BROWNIES AT WATERLOO. Mark Hougemont upon the riglit, Where all day raged tlie fiercest fight. The Frenchmari said : ' That acre place Could I but hold for one short space, In spite of British lead and lance, 2^^*^^5A jt would give all the world to France.' And La Haye Sainte an equal shot Upon the left m^rl's well the spot Where stood the left wing like a rock To bide unmoved the battle shock ; While on the ridge a mile at most In front was ranged Napoleon's host." The famous field they moved around Till every vantage-point was found. " 'T was here Napoleon sat like stone," Said one, "unmoved by shriek or groan. And watched his troopers melt away Around the squares the livelong day. And saw his squadrons sink from sight, Still rank on rank, in ghastly phght, When like a hving stream they flowed To burial in the sunken road." The large museum near at hand Had much to interest the band : Old weapons long since out of date ; The crooked sword and pistol great ; The flint-lock musket, rusted through; The bayonet twisted like a screw ; With coats and hats of wondrous spread As ever graced a soldier's head, 51 ill M !," a] THE BROWNIES AT WATERLOO. ^1 Ih. m Ler no grief. Weigl) too long And caps worn by the grenadiers Tliat towered high above their ears, And spurs that from the boots were torn While in the tide of battle borne. All these, with buckle, belt, and braid, An interesting study made. To dress themselves without delay In such strange garb as round them lay Was now the thought that came to all, And there within that silent hall The band soon rei3resented well The hosts that in the struggle fell. The Brownies soon took from the nail The Frenchmen's battered coats of mail. xVnd hats with plumes that still revealed The blood they caiTied from the field, THE BROWNIES AT WATERLOO. !l: And into coats and boots and all The outfit soon commenced to crawl. Some slipped a cuirass on with ease That hid the rascals to the knees; And more in coats of blue and white, With hairy caps and cockades bright, Soon called to mind the guard so true Who died, but no suiTender knew ; While clothes in which the British fought And troops that Bliicher timely brought Were seen to move about as when The field was filled with fighting men. Now from the hooks and pegs about The saddles and the bridles stout Were taken down, and firm and fast To horses were attached at last; Then, mounting, some rode left and right, Like leaders in the doubtful fight; Some shouldered muskets ; others drew A lengthy saber ; and a few Took pistols that you may depend Were dangerous at either end. They formed in squares across the field, They charged amain, or quickly wheeled In illustration of the fray That marked the spot that fearful day, But while their fun was at its height A thunder-storm disturbed the night. And frightened horses, old enough To have more sense in weather rough. 53 H^l i i [;: !. 'I THE BROWNIEH AT WATKRLOO. il U If 11 IT! ^ALMBRCOi- With crash on crash, and blinding flame, No head was safe, no steed was tame ; 64 (i I Mn THE BROWNIEH AT VVATDKLOO. HtiHsiir, dragoon, und cuimMHicr, Artill(^rynmii and carhincer, Were into wild confuHion cast Tliat lasted till the storm had passed. Some (3harj^ors, none too sure at best Upon theii feet, gave little rest To those whose fortune was tlie back (^f such a stumbling, crazy hack. Across the slop<', where dashed the Cfrays And heavy troopers to amaze Napoleon and his legions true, A medley wild the Brownies flew, And well it was that years ago The famous road was leveled low That was to Frenchmen such a snare, Or many would have perished there; But, freely using mystic power. They vanished at the morning hoiu'. it; \':> 1 i i'.'t 66 li n T Its W « >J THE BROWNIES ON THE STAGE. FREE LIST POSITIVELY SUSP (For One Night Only.) WEEK before the iime of Lent, When people freely money spent To witness favorites on the stage Whose powers seemed to grow with age, Till liouses, crowded to the roof, Displayed the " S. R. O." as i)roof, The Brownies, through a ho])py chance. Of such a place obtaimMl a glaiMC — Not outward only, as you miglit Suppose, but got an inward sight Of all the doings nnu the traps. The feathered hats and slunvy wraps, The weapons, and the banners bright, Through which performers gave deUght. 66 1 k ^ Ik. m k ^ L fp^ ^ ^ 1 n ll i 4 l' THE BROWNIEH ON THE STAGE This was enouj^h to quickly start A wish to burn in every heart That they upon those boards might play Their parts when folk had gone away. How quiet, then, the Brownies kept Until the people homeward stepped! Concealed in places which, I ween, Would scarce the smallest mortal screen. They passed the time, still peeping out And taking notes of all about : How actors strode, and hemmed and hawed ; How weakei souls were overawed, And mealed till the tears, well feigned, Up^ii the stage in torrents rained. Said oi.e : " We won't have far to go To dress ourselves; in rooms below Are willow baskets that can be Attended to without a key. Indeed, I scarce can calmly rest Till rogues are foiled, and virtue blessed." At length, when people crowded out, Discussing many points about The great performance, and the ease With which a gifted few can please, The Brownies, almost in the shade Of those who all the parts had played, Came swarming in to overhaul The willow l)askets, trunks, and all. Said one: " We '11 tind convenient laid All kinds of costumes nicely made: 57 8« u)ise and««tmly uroe your L(l mnniao ou.t rosrrbe sea. 1; !i ' !| i 'A ■ ■ 3. '>' !l ^ i I if ' IS I \ i : IIS THE BR0WNIE8 ON THE STAGE. The old man's wig and shining pato ; The wairior's suit of mail and plate; The robes complete to make a king, A queen, a prelate, or a thing Thej' «'all a demon, red as tire, With horns and tail would suit a liar. From our position I could spy The way the make-up to apply ; The rouge on cheeks, the penciled brow. The cheiTy lips, and powdered pow Are things that meet one at the start Who tries the histrionic art. They change to age the youthful face, And to the wrinkled hnid a grace Befitting people in their teens, Till one must live behind the scenes To rightly understand tlu^ care That 's given to deception there. To be painstaking in your cause Has much to do witli the applause." Why should the reader's mind still bear On keys or other ironware, Wlien known it is that Bi'ownies wield A power to which all locks must yield ? r.rt }f THE BROWNIES ON THE STAGE. When these wee folk in strength descend, Th(^ l)olts fly back, the hinges bend, And thus no long delay e'er tries Their temper, which unruffled lies. Soon plans of action were outlined, And parts to every one assigned. Some little discontent was shown When costumes for the clown were thrown To one who thought he best could shine If acting ns a learned divine Or prelate who could brave a king And on his head the curses fling. ''K D I ES DRESSING R OOM S Said one : " No play conceived by men, Or patclied up by adapter's pen. n ) 1 }V It 1 ■ h. 50 ■il THE BROWNIES ON THE STAGE. it: !f: I 11 r : ■ HI i i I lit ,1 \'t, liJ! /I Ifhough your u)ord» may ujelconie bft MaMe uac of only one in three f\\ Has got a cast that gives a sprit*; A chance to show his talents right. Then let us take from differen^j plays The parts wherein we 11 niei-it praise, And wedge the logic, love, or wit In places where it seems to fit. Let those who 're feminine in way The role of wife or maid essay; Those who can shed the tear at will And, seeming conquered, conquer still; While those who vint to rule the rest, Betray the strong, the weak molest. And ten-orize botli young and old, Can play the king or robber bold." Then, without any written rules Or lesson from the acting schools, They mingled freely on the stage As characters from every age. 'T was strange to see old Egypt's (jueen, Macbeth, and Trilby in one scene. But what cared they for day or date, Ov mixing early scenes with late? T was hue to stalk like Bancjuo's ghost; Like bulky Falstaff drink and boast; liike Hamlet leap into the grave ; Like black Othello foam and rave; As Percy fight; as Bichard cry, "My kingdom for a horse!" and die. The make-u)) was ap})lied so well Not one his dearest friend could tell. GO THE liKOWNIES ON THE STAGE. As fjfreatcst actors soinetimes ra^'e, And ill a frenzy clear the stagi', 1'^ 4t. i^^ -',' i i Lose all control, and fill with fear The poor support that trembles near, Some played then* part so true to life They lost their senses in the strife, 61 THE BROWNIES ON THE STAGE. I , H I And three times round the pit below With desperate strokes pursued tlie foe. The Brownies did not long confine Their acting to one certain line, But turned from tragic scenes that brought The rolling eye and bloody thought, In milder-mannered parts to please. And played the lover on his knees. How strange it was a spark should fly From some one's chimney smoking nigh, And while their fun was at its best, Lodge in a tiny spari'ow's nest, And start a blaze to spring and spread Till half the town wjts out of b<^d! Although well-nigh a block away, 'T was near enough to spoil the play. Because, perchance, the men would haul Th-^ 'jose through dressing-room and all, ^ And bring distress upon the band If they were hiding near at hand. Then into wicker basket flew The gabardine of grasping Jew, The royal robes, tlie cap of clown. The soldier's coat, and prelate's gown 62 \:. \i THE BROWNIES ON THE STAGE. It does not take a Brownie long To cliange liis clothing, right or wrong. ^^^m;. II 03 THE BROWNIES ON THE STAGE. And for the air to make a break, With liberty and life at stake. Up went the windows, weights or not ; Out went the glass, now growing hot ; And from the building king and thief. The bishop, queen, and robber chief, The lover, maid, and serving-man In wild confusion broke and ran ; Some by the windows and the door, Some by the waterspout, and more Through skylights gained the roof and fled, With flames behind them flashing red. In chimneys some were forced to hide. While signs for others did provide A screen until a time came round When they could safely reach the ground. 6« -ivK-'."- ' THE BROWNIES AT THE LAKES OF KILLARNEY. HE sun had left the west in pink, And stars began to pass the wink ; Old Neptune turned a watery eye On lovely Venus bathing nigh; Then all the lesser lights grew red, Till heaven seemed one carnation-bed; And with the change the Brownie band Began to stir for sport in hand. Said one : " My friends, we 're early met. Which proves us keen for action yet; Killarney's lakes, from end to end, To-night in boats we must descend; But first we have to gain the height That overlooks their waters bright; We '11 have to take the mountain road. Where wheels turn not beneath a load; And those who would to heights proceed Must either walk or mount the steed." The Serpent Lake they clambered past, And glances o'er its surface cast. 66 t THE BROWNIES AT THE LAKES OF KILIiARNE^. I I- I ;i Said one: "We well mi^ht pnuse and stare Fpon tlie darksome water there ; For liere before St. Patrick's rod Tlie last snake slid from Ei'iii's sod. Belated peasants pass the pla('e With fui*tive looks and ([uickened paee, And bless the saint lont^ since at rest Who rid the counti*\' of the pest. Well may they tell their beads in prayer, And climb in haste the rocky stair, lor, rmnor tells us, once a year. y When mists lie low across the mere. When svmlight dies upon the peaks That form MacGillicuddy's Reeks, And neither shout nor horn of guide Is heard upon the mountain-side. Up from the depths will slowly rise A serpent's head of monster size, That turns a keen, inquiring eye Upon the shore and pathway nigh ; Tlien with a hiss to lift the hair. And splash that sends the spray in air, It pops below the wave again, 66 .-i'Ai^^^' tiig^ltd^ THE BKOVVNIES AT THE LAKES OF KILLARi EY. As if with more tlian inortHl ken It saw St. Patrick's erozicr bright Still wami.'ig it to keep from sight.'* With bugle-horns some blew and bent; ^ ^^ They wakened echoes as they went: And wild goats on the mountain near Will not forget that night of fear. When o'er the rocky steep they passed Before the Brownies' bugle- blast. They boated o'er the charming lakes And the connecting streams, where breaks Upon one's sight a picture fair — The meeting of the waters there. Across their boats, as down they flew, The old weir bridge its shadow threw. 87 i) !!■ THE miOWNIES AT THE LAKEH OF KILLARNEY. Said oiK% aa ho the structure scanned : "How well this ancient })ridge was planned I The oldest on the isle, 't is said, For Danish hands the mortar s])read. And sprung the arch so strong and true That looks to-night as good as new." Next islands green their gaze would hold, And ruined walls of castles old, That took the mind back to the day When brave Boi-u held regal sway, Or when MacCarthy, Munster's king. Did o'er the quarter scepter swing. Where ivy-gro\^^l Ross Castle stands, Or what escaped the battering bands That brought to dust the towers and halls When Cromwell stood before its walls, The Brownies paused to moralize And gaze around with wondering eyes. The natural inclination strong Soon took possession of the throng. And up the broken walls they went. On viewing all the place intent. But mortar cannot always last, Nor serve to hold the granite fast ; 68 Art you careful of yoixr paH 1 Nont ui'll guarctd lilie youraelf. \ THE BROWNIES AT THE LAKES OP KILLAUNEY. And ill their eagerness to scan Eacli crumbling tower and barbican They ran some risk, as may be guessed, And paid the penalty assessed. The bog below convenient lay, And bones, no doubt, are whole to-day That would have been to sei-viee dead If they had found a harder bed. *T was strange that water known so weli For glassy surface, void of swell, 69 I; ' M II THE BROWNIES AT THi^ LAKES OF KILLARNEX. ill i Should chance to cut up shines that uight, And graft distress upon delight. i-Mcucox Acioss the lake of larj^^st spread A strong, disturbing curi'ent sped ; And for a time the ooan wide No wildor scene could have supplied. For wavbs were pitched' into the boats That stopped the bugler's merry notes 70 A 3 THE BROWNIES AT THE LAKES OF KILLARNEY. Ami drenched the oarsmen to tlie skin Ere they a sheltering point could win. Where roofless Muckross Abbey peeps Through ancient yews, and guard still keeps O'er crumbling tombs, moss-grown and gray, Whose names time's hand has brushed away, The Brownies next came to a halt To view with care each room and vault. With caution here they moved aroimd. Their ears were quick to catch a sound, And noises, howsoever small, boon checked the forward step of all. From first to last along the line, Alarm in every eye would shine, And every lifted foot w<^nild pause Until they understood the cause. Among old tombs is not the most Unlikely place to meet a ghost, And even though a thousand years Had passed away with hopes and fears Hince these good soids were laid at rest With bell and burial of the best, n I nil t' I THE BROWNIES AT THE LAKES OF KILIiARNEY. The Brownie lads were well aware Their spooks might still be wandering tnere But they grew brave and firm of pace When more famiUar with the place. Said one : " 'T is sweet to view a mead Made famous through some gloiious deed, And sweet to muse where pious men Pn 'Served the fnith, when like a den Of Hoiif roared the factions strong Who rai^ked th<^ country, riglit or wrong." As tourists oft api)ropriate Hoiin' bits of mortar, stone, or slate, As rude memorials to r«'tait) In other lands })eyond the main. Bo Brownies were not slow to beat* Away some fragments gath(^i'e mind is duly set. I Near Stirling? town, with little loss Of tiiiir, tile links were marked across The famous ^reen and nei^l boring' laud To jpve full scope to all the band. 70 If THE BROWNIES AT GOLF. \i y\\ Some pi'actisod at the easy swiuj; That players to their service bring Wiieii every muscle in the frame Contributes to the graceful game; And more without a swing at all Attacked at once the passive ball. Home had the niles, and oft th<'ir cries Would settle questions that would rise. No partners in the game were known ; Each Brownie played for self alone. No handicapping was allowed. For every Brownie was too proud To claim a favor on the plea That he was lacking one degree. 77 THE BROWNIES AT 0<)LF. New ground was claimed in field and grove As still the players onward drove ; The balls were driven from the tee Across the garden and the lea; Around the country still they spread Till those who marked the links ahead Sufficient time could hardly find To suit the players (.'lose behind. i ^ U -^ The game went on o'er vule and hill, A<'i'oss a glebe, around a mill, "8 a. IMi THE BROWNIES AT GOLF. Tlien in and out the other side, And througli a flume that forri' supplied. Ai'ound the field of Bannoekbuni The Brownies took a double tuni. The famous stone searee drew an eye, As at their game they hurried by, Where Bniee set firm his banner blight And bravely dared King Edward's might. The winding Forth was not a bar, Because the balls were lofted far Above the hazard deep and wide, And led the game across the tide, Where Wallace made his noble stand And swept the bridge with awful brand, Until the southern foe withdrew; The ganu^ was carried on anew, Until it se«'ined «'re one could win All Scotland would be taken in. 79 '.^•iv.isweBa^BjWi- r ■ :»-h* THE BROWNIES AT GOLF. i ! Still hwp nr) «yr 1(1 port On I*)"!''' iJno promii* niost I:' ( To Abbey Craig their steps they bent, Around Sir Williuru's niouunient; Ai'ound Kin J? James's tomb, as well, The sound of Brownie voices fell. The lofting strokes, the ''far and sure," Went on o'er (-ambus-Kenneth moor. The caddies j)uffing on behind With usefid clubs of every kind. The leading principle of all, To keep the eyes u])<)n the ball, Was well observed on hill and ])lain By those who seldom look in vain. How far they would have can-ied play. Had time allowed, 't is hard to say; But on the distant mountain range Their practised eye observed a change; The rays that brightened every crest Would soon upon the heather rest, So with the early hints of sun The Brownies' game of golf was done. ■ : i i ' 80 TITE HROWNIKS AT CHESTER. objects indistinct and ^ray drew fainter with tlic dyinj? day, Until the creatures made to bask In sunshine quit their sport or task, And out Nvitli sharp, nocturnal si^ht (!anie all the ranj^ers of tlie nij^ht, The Brownies, who had ke})t apart From busy men in field or mart. Now ventured from their safe retreat And took tlie road with willing feet. Where ancient Chester rises high Above the Dee that ripples by, Tliey promptly paused to rest awhile Or ramble round in lirownie style. Haid one : " The bndge on which we stand For centuries this stream has spanned. In ages past full oft it knew The clattering hoof and clouted shoe, When hosts marched on with bows and bills To drag the Welshmen from their hills. 81 1^1 I 1 %. e>. ^'h> IMAGE EVALUATION VEST TARGET (MT-S) h A :/- 7a 1.0 ii 1.25 If 1^ IIM 1^ 1^ m m 2.2 f^l^ 1.8 U il.6 1*^ Sciences Corporation m !\ iV \\ i ^\ ^PkX 23 WieST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580 ;716) 872-4503 <^^ V.i S ^ I : ( L THE BROWNIES AT CHESTER. '1 ' S W ' » But Taffy was not there alone To gnaw the stolen marrow -bone, But many a leek-fed lad besides, Who battles well, and better hides, And often kings, despite their pack Of knights, came empty-handed back." Another said : " The wall of stone That girds the city like a zone Speaks of the time when on this crest The Roman legions found a rest. Some say that John, the scoundrel king, One night within this sandstone ring, Wlien marching on amid his host To bring his foes to block and post. Made rather free with new-brewed ale And peaches from tlie neighboring vale. And in the morn was posted down To fill a tomb in London town." Another said : " You 're wrong, my friend ; Not here he found a timely end, But at old Newark, as I 've read, While from the Wash he quickly sped, Depressed by losses on the beach, The subtle ale and blushing peach 8'2 THE BROWNIES AT CHESTER. Got in their work, and freed from care A king the country well could spare. But, fact or fable, this we know: Still shining down the years will go A warning which the Brownie kind No less than man should bear in mind." Then, moving at a rapid rate. They reached the Fore or Southern Gate, And with the deepening shade grew bold And entered in the city old. They stood awhile the house before That on it an inscription bore Which told that when the plague so dread Had filled each street and lane with dead, This house alone in all the town Escaped the stern Almighty frown. Much came to view within that wall On which the Brownies well might call. The baths, where Romans felt the scrubs Of brush and sponge in marble tubs, 83 ' ! I i •W'^ THE BKOWNIES AT CHESTER. II 1 1 ■ Or lay and dried their traveled ])ones, In drowsy mood, on lieated stones. The Brownies viewed the plot of i^round Which legions often gathered round To see the races or exploits Of those who fought or pitched the quoits. Pai-MCK Co^ Ere parlor lights had ceased to burn The old cathedral in its turn Received attention from the band, Who wei'e not satisfied to stand And view the stinicture from without, But climbed around it, in and out. The orga'*! loft received its share; And while they perched so high in air, Uniting in a hymn of praise, They seemed the very roof to raise. 84 THE BROWNIES AT CHESTER. Through ehoir and nave they roll(Ml along The burden of the sacred song. The cloister roof, the chancel-stone, And transept aisle gave back the tone, Till crypt and dome took up the strain That made the building ring again. The bishop's throne they counted not Too sacred nor too rich a spot For Brownie lim})s to rest awhile ; So there thev sat to chat and smile, And closely scan the stones and wood That nigh a thousand years have stood. ■ Be fAfly on t1i» nsirroio uiay. AuoidfherusH at ciose of day. 9 ught he, - ' through night at least 04 THE BROWNIES AT GLEN-DA-LOUGH. There'll be some comfort for a priest.' But poor St. Kevin, tftiougli he knew The road to heaven as well as you, Was quite as simple as a dove In understanding woman's love, That braves ahke the flood or flame, The scorn of pride or sting of shame. How many nights he found good rest Within his rude and airy nest Was never told; but this we know: One morning, ere the early crow Had thought of bidding roost farewell, He heard a rustling at his cell. And bolting up with startled stare. He found the smiling maid was tlierc^ Without a ladder or a rope, Or aught to render aid but hope, She slid around, and footing kept, Until beside his bed she crept. "The prelate lived for many a year To penance do for rashness here. The hand that could the censer swing From day to day with patient fling, And turn the leaves of Holy Writ With })ioas care, was hardly fit To patient rest beneath the strain That now possessed St. Kevin's bi*ain. The legend leaves no room for doubt As to the fact of putting out, ]■ 11 '■' II iih hi , 1 1 ! THE BROWNIES AT GLEN-DA-LOUGH. Though evidence is somewhat slack About the manner of attack. It may have been a thoughtless shove — A poor reward for such a love ; It may have been a hasty blow, ^V^iere rage was quick and reason slow; But there were shrieks that shook th'.' stag A mile away on Murphy's crag, And made the crow leap from the haw And flap away, too weak to caw, Before the sullen splash below Ajinounced her cruel overthrow. No more to cross St. Kevin's way. For love and life extinguished lay." There Brownies were content to bide Until the hints of «<^-' '■ ! ■ I li ■ ^ I* > , ' [ r i THE BROWNIES FOX-HUNT. y -r Prize-winners at the county fair And yearly meet were sweating there ; For those who urged them to their best Were not the kind to ask for rest. Resorting to each cunning plan, Through lioles in walls the foxes ran ; Each point of vantage soon was seized; Through broken drainage-pipes they squeezed, While dogs, too large to enter in, Lost space it took them hours to win. An ancient palace stood about Three leagues away when they set out. They passed below its towers dark. Thrice circled round the lodge and park, And tore away new ground to find. And left it twenty miles behind. ^Rr As when St. Patrick drove before The toads and snakes from Erin's shore, 102 » ''I THE BROWNIE8' FOX-HUNT. Still cleansing counties as he passed, \ _ And leaving blessings long to last, W^l^ So did the Brownies drive the host — —J--. Of rascals to the distant coast, Where people mainly live on fish, And poultry is an unknown dish. And though the stars began to fail Before they quite could reach a tail. The fright sufficed to keep away The cunning thieves for many a day. ~^^ u ■ t ill ' II THE BROWNIES ON TME APPIAN WAY. siiii had left St. Peter's dome, And Jill the seven hills of Rome Beujau to fade from hmnaii sij]fht, When trooping forth with faces bi'ijfht The cunning Brownies promptly showed Tliemselves nj)on a Roman road, For 't was their plan that night to take A ride that would all records break. Said one who with a pleasant flow Reviewed their missicm here below : "■ My friends, we should be all agreed In fullest sense ere we proceed. Not happy if alone we sip The joy where eveiy one should dip. For still united minds will tell No less than hands, in doing well. That man may live to silver hair Who for himself alone has care, 104 OREAMSRV efv«pi.ovsesoNi.v AOMITTeo THE UROWNIES ON THE Al'l'lAN WAY. But he '11 not loave his fellow-men A life they '11 want to see again." Anothev said: " Yonr words are sound; We '11 friendly prove, wherever found. If mi sehief -making was our aim Or purpose here, there 's none, I elaim, Has better chance lor actions mean Than one who moves about unseen. The miser co.nits his money-bags, And marks their worth with private tags. And tucks them well away at night In bed, secure from mortal sight. If prayer he says, w^hich much we doubt. It is that when he tumbles out At morn he '11 find, in every case, The bags still nestUng in their place. But there would plucking be of hair, And groans and trembling of despair, If we but cared to exercise The mystic power that in us lies. For from the bolster we could draw His treasures, and not move a straw, Nor make a rustle in the house Would stir with fear a baby mouse. 105 • I, liiii IB THE BROWNIEH ON THK AITIAN WAY. And thoujjh wo often have to hide In holes where few would care to bide, Where Httle eonifoi't is our part Anff/t CO}^ Keep up youfhesfii tfiegate i3 near Where loadujill rAll, and prize appear. THE BROWNIES PRINTINO. With faces anxious for a stare At presses set in order there. Said one: "How few e'er pause to think What power Hes in a drop of ink. A scratch, a dot, an aiiy notion, Can start a thousand wheels in motion, And bring employment to the hand Of many a workman through the land! What legions eat their daily bread Through thoughts from some poor creature's head, Who seems most happy when his gaze Is into fancy's wondrous maze." Another said: "There 's nothing strange In that. If you through nature range, You '11 find some birds that spread the wing And to the clouds of heaven sing, And only from their soaring drop To earth when they 've an empty crop; While others in the hedges mope, A seed or grub their only hope ; They pitch no tone above their 'cheep,' And little glory care to reap. And seldom bring their wings in play Except to flit from harm away; Some fish that near the surface scud, And more that feel content in mud; Some beasts that have an eye alone For strangers' heels, or offal bone, 113 mh r, . I' 1 THE BROWNIES PRINTING. . And others of such knowing vvays, They merit people's love and praise. If each is happy in its state, What need have we to mourn its fate, Since happiness is still, they say, The boon for which all hope and pray. The toad is happier under stone Than in the light upon a throne, And he who drags him from his bed With thanks will not be overspread. Let njiture take its course, my friend, And strive your own weak points to mend ; Yt>u '11 not lose time, if all is true, In looking round for work to do ; You '11 have a task, not for a year. But while you stay upon this sphere. And leave unfinished, I '11 be bound. For here perfection is not found." No sooner was an entrance gained Than each his mystic power strained To show experience in the art That was assigned him as his part. Some sat in editorial chairs And leaders wrote of home affairs, The foreign policj' discussed. The Turkish loan, the sugar trust, Alliances that might be found So advantageous all around; And urged a naval demonstration To overawe some growling nation. 114 The Joy that springs troni doing right Will rniihetheplaineiit features bright. THE BROWNIES rKINTING. Some drove a sharp combative pen, And called to arms all fighting men; Denounced those kissing angel-kings Who carry knives beneath their wings; Urged friends to trust their hugs no more, For war was at their very door. While at the linotypes they stood And set the lines as best they could. And those who know the Brownies will Be sui'e 't was done with speed and skill The paper-rolls with flash and gleam Ran through the presses like a stream. 115 THE BROWNIES PRINTINO. 11 iiihii 1!^! Some overlooked the work in lumd, Some saw supply wait on demand; More ran like newsboys, ready there To scatter pages everywliere. And never was a task assigned To creatures of more willing mind. From central square to outer road, At club-house, inn, and plain abode, At merchant's hall and gipsy tent, They left some copies as they went. Some, working with uncommon zeal, Found trouble through a crank or wheel, 116 \ ' ■--•■9. utmi w; For we '11 descend into the pit As far as reason will pennit, And learn, perhaps, ere we return. How deep an endless fire can bum. Prepare yourselves for sulphurous smoke And noises that the world awoke In ages past, when cities proud Were buried in an ashen shroud. If there are those whose faces pale When Hstening to a gipsy's tale, They 'd better keep a lower sphere; Their ylace to-night is liardly here." The road was rough, and some grew weak Before they gained the lofty peak; But little time they stood to scan The crater wide ere they began To lower those who cared to take The chance of any slip or break. At times the yell or thrilling call Of those in danger startled all, And brought the staring eyes about To learn the cause of such a shout. 121 p-'*>^, The mouse FhAt has no tamfe for cheeae Is not so apt to get a squeeze. 11 I : r f ► t iijl I i i < THE BKOWNIES ON M(3UNT VESUVIUS. 'T was sti'jingo upon that very niii'li! The iuward tiro should spriun' to lii;ht Which snioldcrcd low tor uiauv a voar And i>'ave hut little eause for tear. And now a hubhling sound wouhl rise From depths unseen hy Brownie eyes ; Next smoke and ashes would ascend In clouds that seemed to have no end ; And then the heat and lurid flame, To cap the s[)readipii!: horror came, Attended by a rund)lini'- sound Like ])eals of thuudtM* underground. Soon those below the signals threw To friends above, who quickly drew Upon the ropes with fingers stout To brhig their hapless comrades out. The drowsy bats, quite unprepared For such an outbi-eak, badly fared, As, flitting wildly from their nest. They sought a safer place of rest. :^.,-rJ '^^'- 122 THE BROWNIEH ON MOUNT VESUVIUS. No wonder there were shouts below, And shouts above, and many an " Oil ! " Wrunj? forth by pain, and vows to stand Unbroken, niad^ with lifted hand, IL'3 THE BKOWNIES ON MOUNT VESUVIUS. i M, mk^'M That tbey hereafter would give o'er Their crazy notions to explore. 'T was bad that basket-wood should start At such a time to break apart. And worse that ropes, a prey to rust, Should also now betray their trust. Bat thus misfortune often shows Her mahce by repeated blows. To blame the i-ust or blame the wire, Or willow, brittle as a brier. Could little comfort give at most To those now blistering in the roast. The Brownies who saw comrades bright Suspended in that woeful plight Felt much concern, and feared, indeed, They M tread no more the dewy mead. But though the giving out was great, Enough remained to bear the wei'2jht That changed position as c ;h shake Announced to all the latest break. 'T was minutes only by the clock Which down at Naples crowned the block. But to the Brownies dangling o'er The dread abyss it passed for more. Below them, boiling hke a pot. The lava rose all hissing hot. Until upon the brim its glow Proclaimed an early overflow. The stones above the flame and smoke, At melting-point, now whizzing broke 124 'H THE BROWNIES ON MOUNT VESUVIUS. tm J ^ In pieces when thus forced to bear The influence of colder air. All hands were hoisted out at last, Some weak and sore, and faiUng fast, Then, dropping ropes and baskets there. To leave was now the Brownies' care. By happy chance, their mystic speed Gave them a rod or two of lead. So, climbing to some ridges nigh, They watched the torrent rolling by. And there, above high-lava mark. They waited till the latest spark Of liquid fire in ashes died. And then forsook the mountain-side; And as the plain below they won. The stars grew pale before the sun. 125 .'i thp: bkownies' eveninjr star CENTURY RUN. led her train Of brilliants o'ei a stretching plain Ere Brownies had already done A portion of their century iini, On wheels of every style and make That could a cyclist's fancy take. But while thus spinning in dehght No common trouble hove in sight. Fii'st yells that seemed their blood to freeze Came startling from a clumi) of trends; Tlien crashing for the Brownie folk A pack of wild hyenas broke. They 're creatures of ill-favored mien With best of care, in (.'ages clean, And food prepared fresh for the jaws; But here, all tousled up with straws And dust and bark, from foot to head, Unkept, uncared for, and unfed, 126 H THE BKOWNIES' CENTUKY KUN. They fcn'ined indeed a vile parade Advaiiciuy; madlv from :=r- PALr^^K ' A /nisehoeelrunsioiiere truth sits still, ■fishard to catch nnd worse to hill- Ere this they oft had broken fast On luckless mortals traveling past, And seeing Brownies as they ran, Mistook them for some caravan, And bounded forth, believing tliey Were now assured an easy prey. They nothing knew of Brownie lore, Or mvsti(! traits in tliose before. And started on an enterprise That warranted some exercise. 127 i> I 5I I I THE BROWNTi::s' CENTURY RUN. So scared were Brownies for a spt^D A number from their saddles fell, And brought about, in every case, Delays that were much out of place. The beasts, encouraged by the sign Of panic all along the line. Put forth the loudest outcry yet, And counted every table set; 'f -» Cox In fancy, knives and forks were there, The spoons to sco'^p, and salt to spare, With finger-bowls and napkins clean, And toothpicks for the closing scene. No caravan had come for days, And every eye was now ablaze. And, through the spur of pressing nc^ed, Tliey quite surpassed all former speed. But there 's no sharper spur than fear. And Brownies strained the chattering gear Of ever}' safety, old and new. And tandem built for ten or two. 128 THE brownies' CENTURY RUN ^,-!f^5L Before them lay long miles of track; Behind thorn closed the starvinjij pack. Untamable, indeed, and rude, They fought for place in angry mood, And pitched a chorus in the real That grated on a Brownie's ear. Ere long, attracted by the chase, Still other beasts appUed for place: The wolf, the wildcat, and the bear And jackal entered for their share. Till those declared who best could see A whole menagerie was free. Full well we know in every mn There has to be some pumping done, And sad and desperate was his case Who had to halt in such a race, All shaky-handed, to inspire With scanty air a flabby tu'e. A bridge has been a famous theme Since first it learned to span a stream. And while combating for the same No few have won immortal fame. Poor Tam O'Shanter knew the boon Of life lay in the Brig o' Doon, 129 I l',-( m I THE BKOWNIES' CENTITRY liUN. And on a bridge not far away The Brownies' hope now anehored lay. PiLr^SR Cox. To gain it at a slight advance Was now, indeed, their only chance. Th(! punctured tires confessed how near Were snapping teeth to Brownies dear, As tliey all pedaled o'er the draw And in its rise their safety saw. 130 \ . f Com. Whaf cikn you do when folK begin To say Hieyr* out, whenthfyare in' THE BROWNIES AND THE TIDE. ^was the tide as fell the niglit, And far to sea the sand was white, When Brownies met to chat a spell About their joys and cares as well. Said one : " A pleasant life we lead, To help the poor in case of need, Or sport and ramble up and down In country now, and then in town. We pass the watchman at his post, As silent as the fabled ghost. We enter in the hoiises still Where children cribs and cradles fill. And older heads on pillows pressed Enjoy a good and needful rest. We glance around with prying eyes. To see where work unfinished lies, Where weary handb let needles fall. Or hung the garment on the wall, To wait until the morning light Would more befit a failing sight. How anxio-.s all to play their part — To learn if they have lost the art, 131 ,/"x^ y 1 f liil 1 1. THE BUOWNIEH AND THE TIDE. To prov«^ that th(»y eiin point tho toe Or tiu'ii the lieel us years ago ; Ciiii run the gusset, hem the sark, And thread the needle in the dark ; And how between each stitch the head Is turned about to face the bed, The rt'stless ann or foot to note, The hghter breathing, clearing throat, Or other signs we apprehend Which tell when sleep is near an end." The Brownies at their evening play Now ventured from the shore away, And noticed not, though seldom slow. When turned the Hood to inward flow. Although it slowly seemed to l(»ave. With scarce a murmur or a heave, With hasty leaps and angi-y roar It sought again the rocky shore. They ran, of course, but hope was vain The distant line of shore to gain. Impeded by the currents strange And flsh rejoicing at the change Still darting wildly through the foam As wide and wider spread their home. No less tlie sea-bird's bolder flight And piercing cry j)!'oclaimed delight ; 132 m w THK BROWNIRH AND THK ITDE. But pleasure was that momeut tar From Browuie sprites upon the bar, Now elimbiug up or sliding back On rocks that chance flung in their track, And shifting stations as the wave Uave promise of an early grave. 133 i i I lii w If; llli THE BROWNIES AND THE TTOE. Could mortals see them in that plight. Retreating from the billows white, Still eying stains or creases dark In hopes to find high-water mark. They 'd hardly think again to trace A smile upon a Brownie's face. Where rises tide some forty feet A person oft must change his seat, If he is not prepared to die, Or wants to keep his clothing dry. And still, as Brownies upward crept. Around their heels the water swept Until the very peak or crown By chafing waves was taken down 134 THE BROWNIES AND THE TIDE. And only Brownies were in view, A j?roiip nbove the ocean blue. The spindle-legs soon went below; Their bodies felt the chiUiiii,' How; Tiieir necks were stretched, as wave iipcurled, To still connect them with the world; The birds, supposing all was through. With life and action round them flew. Yet kept aloof whene'er they spied Their eyes still rolling bright and wide. But even here it gives us rest To know how well they stood the test. Said one, betwei^n the waves that broke Across his face and checked his croak : " 1 've always said, and still maintain, IVlisfoi'tunes yield a certain gain; They prove our nei-A'c and closer bring The friends that through disaster chng; What though we now and then may feel Around our legs a wandering eel, Or something bobbing at our toes, That no one but a mermaid knows. If from the trial we can rise With better sense and firmer ties?" Another spoke, his latest speech Before his mouth took in a leech. And through his nose he then ii spired The nourishment his lungs required: 135 I I! THE BROWNTE8 AND THE TIDE. ~=^--^^^" /'/(i'^E'! C0)«.. "No tree can provi^ liovv well it bends Until the hurficnine deseeiids ; 80 wo tlirou^h tiiuls of this kind Are able to enrich the mind. 'T is bettt^r than a year's advice. The tide will never catch us twice, But what I h^arn of ocean more Than now I know shall be on shore." The sea has limits, as the land, And must obey the moon's connnand To check its pace and be content To rise no more on mischief bent. . THE BROWNIES AND THE TIDE. Although you droit) Hi« righr«ou» bUidt, You may be tiri.rto nrMl the spade . The Brownies, let me emphasize, Were not prepared for greater I'ise. Another inch above the rock Had given all the world a shock ; A wave no thicker than your hand Had cost us all ll'.e Brownie band. The bubbles, as in boiling pots. Began to rise and float in spots. When things are at the worst, they say, They sometimes mend and come our way ; And haply in the nick of time. When hope seemed hardly worth a dime, The flood was checked through nature's plan, And, to their joy, the ebb began. The seaweed drifting for the beach No nigher to its port could reach, But promptly, ^vithout turn or tack, (Commenced its random jjurney back. The billows hissed no more in scorn. But, whispering, left to find Cape Horn. No choice had fish ; their place they knew. The birds turned tail and outward flew. To run was now the Brownies' care. And leave the rocks ere fully bare; And as the sun on Scotland fell. They x*eached the sh^re alive and well. 137 i' Ik !l THE BROWNIES SPIOPPING. E birds of day had settled down Upon their roosts in forests brown, And men before the deepening shade Had laid aside the tools of trade To seek the rest the evening brought, When Brownie sprites a meeting sought. Their conversation scarce began Before upon their waits it ran. Said one: "This thought oft comes of late. When I review our seedy state : Through all adventures heretofore, At home or on a foreign shore. These suits we Ve worn by day and night Without a change, however sliglit. And soon a treat should be at hand For every member of the band." Another said: "A change is near; I 'm not unmindful, nev3r fear; In my excursions wide 1 found A shop that covers blocks of ground; *^ 138 ^\ THE BROWNIES SHOPPING. ^[^ There r;lotliing lies of every form And fashion, for the sun or storm, The man of years can quickly find The gar.inents there to suit his mind, And there the babe in arms may smile To see the mfants' latest style. The price of every garment there Is marked in figures full and fair. As Brownies may not mortals meet In shops, no more than /5./^c^^^^^^^^^^^ in the street, We '11 take things at the rate they name, And not incur the slightest blame; To-mon*ow night let all the band Assemble with the cash in hand; Let savin t»anks be emptied out And eveiy pocket round about Receive a call, that wo may do Some shopping ere the night i.^ through." Then little banks that hel<^ thrir sttore, Some light enough, but weighty more, ^M sT' Were brought in view to quickly yield */"^^S.^C^^^^^ The savings thoy so loir concealed. _.^^f^^^v Where all was earn* , or in what way, V ^ 'T is needless here for me to say; 139 ii V- H THE BROWNIES SHOPPING. The reader may be well content To know that every single cent Or ha'penny that each safe contained By honest effoiis had been gained. Then to that shop that was assigned The night before with wilhng mind '^^'^t,^ <^r < The Brownies did at once repair, Through public park and private square. It causes them but slioi-t delay To find a fitting en trance- way. To sing the Brownies' praise and tell The work they do and do it well, Leave naught untold or out of sight That would illume their record bright. 140 ■■H THE BROWNirS SHOPPING. Would take much longer than the sfian Allotted to a mortal man ; One might be scribbling till the blast Of doom put all such notions past, And then, in spite of zeal and skill. Be only at the preface still. Ah, they have ways to come and go That we may never live to know; The cliilcl that heeds the parent's nod Will need feu) lessons from the rod. Can one expect to tally keep Of fish that dai-t through ocean deep? To watch their windings and their play At hide-and-seek, from day to day? No one has power, save Him alone Who gave each fish its wealth of bone, Its icy blood and oily scale. Peculiar fiis and driving tail, And said: "Go forth, like lightning flit. And cleave the wave as thou art fit; But whether sporting in the brine, Or strugghng on the angler's line, I will take heed, for thou art mine." Ere long each active member stepped Within the place where goods were kept. The kind of clothing there they found Would suit the people, earth around — The English red, the Chinese blue, The buckRkin for the painted Sioux. Egyptian garments white as snow. And fur coats for the Eskimo 141 "'iltlf CtK .' ''. ,il, [ I! THE BROWNIES SHOPPING. Were ready made on every side, With cards of size and price supplied. What trying on at once began As here and there the Brownies ran ! ^P. Now to a mirror in a pack, To get a view of side or back; Now to a drawer to find the shears To chp a tail that long appears; Now for a needle and some thread To give some buttons wider spread, Or lift them on the back still more To match the suit so long they wore. 142 THE BROWNIES SHOPPING. Then Brownie skill had ample range While bringing round each needed change. m ALTERATION M '^ |d E PARTMENT, my li' i w|!! ^' ; i !J ' flrT i' iri |i i I vVi'T ' ' '' '''' ' ' ' ' '' iii ' f ''i i i !! ' iii ' " i P'^ ' i ' i '' ii ! iy' '! i?^ ' ' ■M ' m ' n ' -" ' ']} ^ ' ? l !i:1l;/l)]ilWlllilWl^lll ' T '' i l'''' HT l | |' ]TTi '||''' "Tl | |l|l| ' l ^9..Q^imm iM v^ But better hands could not apply A balky thr'>ad to needle's eye, Or with the shears bring garments all To fit like plaster on the wall. Some, finding what they wished with ease, Gave aid to those more hard to please, Till every one was suited right And every face was beaming bright. Then value to the smallest thread Was laid upon the board instead. Those falling short found friends near by The wanting shilling to supply, For Brownies rather have a heart Alive to every noble part Than all the treasure one could hide In vaults, however deep or wide. 148 THE BROWNIES SHOPPING. i' Be sure no losses were sustained By those where outfits were obtained. They found at mom the money there. To smallest fraction counted fair, But, lo! a greater value lay In what the rogues had thrown away. The cast-off garments left behind Proved riches of the rarest kind, All labeled as a guarantee That they were borne across the sea Upon the forms of Brownies small, The only band upon the ball. No delving in an ancient site Could bring such curios to light. The bits of braid and buttons old Were counted worth their weight in gold, And soon were gathered up to be Preserved where all the world could see. If you are honest, little acta, Aft tdell Aslnrf e. Mill publisK facts. 144 ooest, tK facta. } THE BROWNIES CROSS THE ATLANTIC. Second Stage. TILL farther north the Brownie band Pursued their way across the strand To where the sea, with capes and isles, Is narrowed to one thousand miles. And here they planned some logs to find. And build a raft of strongest kind. On which they all might safely ride. Until they reached the eastern side, And then continue on their way Thrcfugh foreign lands without delay. Said one : "At this time of the year The currents eastward set from here; And if om* raft but holds together, And we are blessed with pleasant weather. Within a fortnight, at the most. We '11 surely reach the Norway coast." Another said: "Somewhat I know About that ocean's ebb and flow. And tell you, ere you court such ills You 'd all do well to make your wills. 19