THE BOASTING BOY.
I knew a boy in our town, whose name was Billy Hood:
He had a sword all made of tin, a musket made of wood.
His drum would always let you know when Billy Hood was coming;
For all the neighbors used to say, "I wish he'd stop that drumming."
Now, very brave this Billy was,—at least, so Billy thought;
And he was not afraid,—not he,—of any thing that fought.
"With this good sword and gun," said he, "I'll fight until I die:
Let man or beast come on! Who fears? Not Billy Hood! Not I!"
But ah! one day this Billy went where six old geese were straying,
And on his noisy drum began somewhat too loudly playing:
An old goose chased him from the field; and Billy, screaming, ran,
Till on the kitchen floor he sank,—that valiant little man!
Uncle Charles.
