The Lost Boy

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Jan 26, 1905

Lost! I have lost him! Where did he go? Lightly I clasped him. How could I know Out of my dwelling he would depart Even as I held him close to my heart?

Lost! I have lost him! Somewhere between Schoolhouse and college last he was seen, Lips full of whistling, curl-tangled hair. Lost! I have lost him! Would I know where.

Lost! I have lost him, Chester, my boy! Picture-book, story-book, marbles and toy, Stored in the attic, useless they lie. Why should I care so much? Mothers, tell why.

Yes, he has gone from me, leaving no sign, But there's another calls himself mine. Handsome, and strong of limb, brilliant is he; Knows things that I know not. Who will can it be?

Face like the father's face, eyes black as mine, Steps full of manly grace, voice masculine; Yes, but the gold of life has but one alloy, Why does the mother heart long for her boy—

Long for the mischievous, queer little chap, Ignorant, questioning, held in my lap? Freshman so tall and wise, answer me this: Where is the little boy I used to kiss?

— The Cork Examiner.