[THE AMERICAN NIGHTS' ENTERTAINMENTS.]
THE M. S. D'S.
BY EMMA J. GRAY.
"It fell upon a day in the balmy month of May" that the M. S. D's went for an out-of-door frolic.
Who were the M. S. D's? Merry Sons and Daughters. The society had been incorporated the year before; there were no dues, no president, secretary, treasurer, or by-laws; there was but one qualification—being merry. No long faces among the members of that society; no boys or girls who always want things done their way. No, that style of person was not eligible, nor selfish folks, or any other kind of disagreeable people.
The M. S. D's were stanch, true-hearted, and sunny, their greatest joy being forgetfulness of self. They were always merry because they were always happy; and they were always happy because they trod evil underfoot, and thought out great thoughts white and godlike, thoughts that shone with the clear and steady light that reflected good-will on all.
Therefore, when the society went for a day's fun it was the gayest of roving, a complete El Dorado of enjoyment; and an outing in the blithesome month of May to them meant a full and happy one.
For some reason the usual parties had been omitted this year, and therefore none of the girls had been crowned Queen, and none of the boys had paid their respects to the Court.