What good, good children we can be.

KATE.

Last year, when any thing went wrong,
I used to fret the whole day long,
And sometimes sob and cry aloud,
Dark-looking as a thunder-cloud;
But, even in a gloomy place,
I now must keep a sunny face;
For, all this year, I mean to see
How bright and cheerful I can be.

MARY.

Last year, the flitting butterfly
Was not so idle as was I;
I liked my sports and frolic well,
But would not learn to read and spell:
Now I must change my ways at once,
Or I shall surely be a dunce.
This glad New Year that has begun,
Must leave me wiser when 'tis done.

JAMES.

Last year, my temper was so quick,
My angry words came fast and thick,
And brother Tom I'd scold and strike
When he did what I did not like.