XI.


EVENING SONG.

Waking, I dream of thy life that shall be
Never by sorrow made weary;
Earth shall be soft with love for thee,
Down-lined the nest of my dearie.
Millions of flowers to gladden thy way,
Springing from seeds that my heart sets to-day.
Sleep, darling baby, baby!

Sleeping, dream thou of the Spirit of Spring--
Of sweets and of scents she is bringing;
Just for the flowers' sake thrushes will sing,
Flowers blow for love of the singing.
In the world's harmony take thou thy part,
So shall the springtide bloom in thy heart!
Sleep, darling baby, baby!

_E. Nesbit._

[Illustration]

[Illustration]