APPENDIX
A BUSH SCHOOL-GIRL.
A school report—and yet it speaks;
While he who so inclines,
May find its story if he seeks
To read its simple signs;
I shape the story of those weeks
Here in the faltering lines.
What do I see? A forehead fair
Puckered into a frown;
Thoughtfully, 'neath the silky hair,
Shaded 'twixt gold and brown.
Pondering, half uncertain where
To place a verb or noun.
A little hand, slight, soft, blue-veined,
Raised as she stays to think;
Its slenderest forefinger stained
Perhaps by a drop of ink;
While girlish faculties are strained,
Seeking some missing link.
A six months' record, very dear
To those who watch her tread
The path to womanhood, and hear
Her praises loudly said.
—Ah me! my school report, I fear,
Was looked upon with dread.
A lengthy list of kindness done.
Of gentleness with those
Who mingle in her girlish fun;
Alike her friends and foes
Acknowledge that her tasks begun
Are carried to a close.
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