Such an ill-behaved man she never had seen! When she wanted a picture, pray, what did he mean By hiding his head? And, under her breath, She whispered: “Mamma, is he frightened to death?” She wondered and wondered when would he begin— When, presto! that instant a round, dimpled chin, And a mouth where sweet kisses seemed coming and going, And two merry eyes with their fun overflowing Were caught by the sunlight.—Now see! There she stands With a flower on her breast and her doll in her hands, Her bonny face framed in her fair, waving curls— The sweetest and dearest of dear little girls! [Illustration] THE BROWNIES AT BASE-BALL. BY PALMER COX. [Illustration] One evening, from a shaded spot, The Brownies viewed a level lot Where clubs from different cities came To play the nation’s favorite game. Then spoke a member of the band: “This game extends throughout the land; No city, town, or village ’round, But has its club, and diamond ground, With bases marked, and paths between, And seats for crowds to view the scene. At other games we’ve not been slow Our mystic art and skill to show; Let’s take our turn at ball and bat, And prove ourselves expert at that.” Another answered: “I have planned A method to equip our band. There is a firm in yonder town, Whose goods have won them wide renown; Their special branch of business lies In sending forth these club supplies. The balls are wound as hard as stones, The bats are turned as smooth as bones, And masks are made to guard the nose Of him who fears the batter’s blows, Or stops the pitcher’s curves and throws. To know the place such goods to find, Is quite enough for Browny-kind!” When hungry bats came forth to wheel ’Round eaves and find their evening meal, The cunning Brownies sought the store, To work their way through sash and door. And soon their beaming faces told Success had crowned their efforts bold. A goodly number of the throng Took extra implements along, In case of mishap on the way, Or loss, or breakage during play. The night was clear, the road was good, And soon within the field they stood. Then games were played without a pause, According to the printed laws. There, turn about, each took his place At first or third or second base, At left or right or center-field, To pitch, to catch, or bat to wield, Or else as “short-stop” standing by To catch a “grounder” or a fly.