A Child speaks.
"I'll be better in New Year.
This year's toys were quickly broken,
Bad cross words so soon were spoken.
Now, I'll think before I say things,
And I'll take care of my playthings,
And I'll answer the minute that nurse calls "Come here."
Oh, do make haste and go, Old Year!"
The Old Year speaks.
"I must pass to-night beyond life and light,
For the New Year comes apace.
The bell strikes One. 'Tis the chime begun
That tolls me to my place.
The strokes come fast: in the time that's past,
For a weary and thankless crew,
I did my best and I go to my rest,
Saddened yet joyful too.
It strikes Eleven! One instant even,
My end comes and I die:
The joy bells ring for the coming King!
Twelve! Twelve! I go. Good-bye."
The New Year speaks.
"I come as a child, a king, a hope,
A promise of good to be;
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