Only to herself most softly
May she say this simple word,

"Lead us not into temptation;"
That will angry thoughts remove,
Make her calm and still and gentle,
With a spirit full of love.




WHAT THE BIRDS SAY.


[Illustration]

"I hear the birds sing, mother,
Yet know not what they say;
I've listened to them often
Until they flew away.

"Say if their words, dear mother,
To you are clear and plain,
Or if, like me, you've listened
At morn and night in vain."

"We don't know what they say, dear;
We think they sing their hymn
At early morning sunrise,
Or at the twilight dim.