TOODLES made a solemn vow the other day, in presence of MUGGINS, that he
"would never shave until he had paid off his debts," but MUGGINS, in
relating the fact, said simply that "TOODLES had concluded to wear a
full beard the rest of his life."

* * * * *

THE POEMS OF THE CRADLE.

Old Mother Hubbard

GENTLE READER: You have a soul for poetry. Even when an infant, and in
your cradle, you had a soul for poetry. You were not aware of it at this
early stage, but your mother--if you had one--was. With what fond
alacrity did she hasten to your cradle-side, when some wicked little pin
was trying to insinuate itself into your affections much against your
inclination, and soothe you with the pleasing strains of Mother Goose.
And how your eyes brightened and your little feet and hands commenced
playing tag, when you heard the wonders of Mother Goose extolled in
pretty verse. Ah! those were the days of romance. I will leave them now,
to search for the hidden beauties of one of your childhood's melodies,
the eventful career of Mother HUBBARD and her dog.

I will begin with the opening Canto of the poem, and limit myself, for
the present, with detailing the beauties of its many incidents.

CANTO I.

Old Mother Hubbard
Went to the Cupboard