I love to think, too, of what pleasant messages they can carry
backwards and forwards between friends, and that in a few hours
these curious, handy little things will appear before you, my dear
little Frank, and tell you what I have just been thinking about, and
that I always love you, and am ever

Your affectionate AUNT.




WHAT DAY IS IT?


It is so still that, although it is midday, one can hear the sound
of the soft spring shower as it falls on the young and tender
leaves.

The crowing of the cock pierces the ear with his shrill note, as in
the silent watches of the night. The song of the wren is so
undisturbed, it is so full, and is heard so distinctly that it only
reminds one, with its sweet music, how unusual is the silence; it
does indeed seem but the "echo of tranquillity."

There are many people in the streets, but they have a different
appearance from usual; they are all dressed in their holiday
garments; they look happy, but they are very calm and serious. The
gentle shower does not seem to disturb them; it only affords an
opportunity for reciprocal kindness.