That humble hearth nor evil fortune knew,

Nor discontent. Long time the children sought

For tidings of the lost; yet heard they naught;

But sometimes, of a winter eventide,

When all was bright within, the children thought

That, when they called up through the chimney wide,

Thence, with a gentle purr, their olden friend replied.


[WAIFS]

Wept the Child that no one knew,