The Mother chose, with modest diffidence,

To rank the last. Now seated round the hearth

In one vast circle, with the sparkling eye

Of expectation, and the eager glance

Of curiosity, the group are ranged

To have the plan fulfilled. The ruddy glow

Of blazing faggots gives the cheek of youth

Redoubled beauty. As the firelight smiles

Throughout th’ illumined room, its lustre falls

On looks more cheerful still. The lively warmth