SEND THEM TO BED WITH A KISS.
O MOTHERS, so weary, discouraged,
Worn out with the cares of the day,
You often grow cross and impatient,
Complain of the noise and the play;
For the day brings so many vexations,
So many things going amiss;
But, mothers, whatever may vex you,
Send the children to bed with a kiss! The dear little feet wander often,
Perhaps, from the pathway of right;
The dear little hands find new mischief
To try you from morning till night;
But think of the desolate mothers,
Who'd give all the world for your bliss,
And, as thanks for your infinite blessings,
Send the children to bed with a kiss. For some day their noise will not vex you;
The silence will hurt you far more;
You will long for the sweet children's voices,
For a sweet childish face at the door;
And to press a child's face to your bosom,
You'd give all the world just for this.
For the comfort 'twill bring you in sorrow,
Send the children to bed with a kiss.
—Anon.