Just for mischief I caught it, and soon; in a rage,
Its owner set up a most pitiful wail.
He looked in dismay,--there was something to pay,--
But what was the matter he could not make out;
What was holding him so, when he wanted to go
To see what his brothers upstairs were about?

4. But soon from the chamber the others rushed down,
Impatient to learn what the trouble might be;
I have not a doubt that each brow wore a frown,
Only frowns on their brows are not easy to see.
For a moment they gazed, perplexed and amazed;
Then began both together to--gnaw off the tail!
So, quick I released him,--do you think that it pleased
him?
And up the small staircase they fled like a gale.
Julia C. R. Dorr.
LESSON XXVII.

THE NEW YEAR.
1. One pleasant New-year morning, Edward rose, and
washed and dressed himself

70 ECLECTIC SERIES.
in haste. He wanted to be first to wish a happy New Year.
2. He looked in every room, and shouted the words of
welcome. He ran into the

street, to repeat them to those he might meet.