There were a number of children, who were all school-fellows, got together to play, when the squire of the parish coming that way, gave them some money for fruit and cakes, and desired they would divide what they bought with all their companions. Now Master and Miss Fairchild, who belonged to the party, happening then to be absent, these greedy children would not share what they had got with them when they returned. While they were complaining how hard this was, the squire happening again to come by, reproved them for their behaviour, and said he would report them to their school-master; but he invited Master Fairchild and his sister to his own house, where he feasted them with puddings, pies, and all sorts of niceties; but not one of the greedy children was admitted.
The Careless Children.
Exercise is good for health, and therefore sports which keep the limbs in motion are proper for children; but they should be careful to use such as are safe. Charley Careless and Sukey Hairbrain suffered for want of minding this maxim. They were fond of swinging on a rope, and their parents thought the exercise did them good; but having once neglected to fasten it properly, down they came, and were much hurt, and still more frightened. This was very heedless, and as pretty as the sport had seemed, it hindered them from using it for the future.
“Learn to be wise from others harm,
And you shall do full well.”