(Blackboard.)
It is Rude to Stare.
LV. WALKING SOFTLY.
105. Florence Nightingale.
A long time ago there was a war, and the English soldiers went out to fight. Many of the poor fellows were wounded, and a kind lady, who is now quite old, went from England to nurse the brave soldiers. Her name was Florence Nightingale, and it is a name that everybody loves.
The soldiers had never been nursed by a lady before, and she was so kind and gentle, they loved her more than I can tell you—so much, indeed, that they would kiss her shadow on the pillow as she walked softly through the rooms where they lay.
If you have ever been in a hospital you will know how quietly the nurses move about. Why is it? Because a noise would disturb the poor sufferers. But it is not nice for people who are well either to hear children stamping about as if they would send their feet through the floor. Have you noticed how softly pussy moves? It is because she walks on her toes. We have to wear shoes on our feet, and cannot help making a little noise, but we must remember to step on our toes, and move as quietly as possible.
(Blackboard.)
Try always to Walk Softly.