Festus. Let me hear you read: that will give me courage to make the attempt myself.

Stella. Oh, very well! Remembering your partiality for juvenile literature, you will pardon me if I read a very short but sweet poem. (Produces a printed handkerchief from her pocket.)

Festus. Ah, a pocket edition!

Stella. (Reads from the handkerchief.)

“Who sat and watched my infant head

When sleeping on my cradle-bed,

And tears of sweet affection shed?

My mother.

When sleep forsook my open eye,

Who was it sang sweet lullaby,