Copybook: Mary B. Brooke, 1885-1887

86.60.70

Which loved best: "I love you, mother," said little John; Then, forgeting his words, his cap went on, And he was off to the garden swing, And left her wood and water to being;

"I love you, mother" said rosy Nell; "I love you better than tongue can tell." Then she teased and pouted full half a day, Till her mother rejoiced when she went to play

"I love you, mother" said little Fan To-day I'll help you all I can; How glad I am that school don't keep"! So she rocked the baby fast asleep.

Then stepping softly she brought the broom And swept the floor and tidied the room Busy and happy all day was she, Helpful and happy as a child could be

M B Brooke Marry B Brooke

I love you mother again they said Three little children going to bed How do you think that mother guessed Which of them really loved her best?

First peice recited by Mary B Brooke 1885

Mother's Girl.

Sleeves to the dimpled elbow Fun in the sweet blue eyes To and fro upon errands The little maiden flies Now she is washing dishes Now she is feeding the chicks Now she is playing with pussy Or teaching Rover tricks.

Wrapped in a big white apron Pined in a checkered shawl.

Hanging clothes in the garden Oh! were she only tall Hushing the fretful baby Coaxing his hair to curl Stepping around so briskly Because she is Mother's girl

Hunting for eggs in the haymow Peting old Brindle calf Riding Don to pasture With many a ringing laugh farming when ever you call her Running wherever sent Mothers girl is a blessing And Mother is well content

Second piece recited by Mary B. Brooke 1885

The Mocking-Bird and the Donkey

A mock-bird in a village Had somehow gain the skill To imitate the voices Of animals at will.

And singing in his prison, Once, at the close of day, He gave, with great precision, The donkey's heavy bray.

Well pleased, the mock-birds master Sent to the neighbors round, And bade them come together To here that curious sound.

They came, and all were talking In praise of what they heard, And one delighted lady Would fain have bought the bird.

As donkey listened sadly, And said: Confess I must That there are shallow people, And terribly unjust.

I'm bigger than the mock-bird, And better bray than he, Yet not a soul has uttered A word in praise of me.

Third piece recited by Mary B Brooke 1886.