PREPARING FOR CHRISTMAS.
[ENIGMA.]
I'm headless, mouthless, yet my back is handsome, too, and strong;
I sometimes have a tail to boast, although it is not long;
I'm wonderfully formed and well,
As England's proudest ladies tell,
That bear me up aloft;
I'm useful, and for show.
Some birds and insects know me well.
Now try if you my name can tell.
[TWO BOYS.]
BY MARGARET E. SANGSTER.
"A fellow can't have any fun,"
Says Harry, at the pane;
"I wish the tiresome day were done—
I hate the horrid rain.
That boy looks jolly over there;
His clothes are nice and old;
I'm sure his mother doesn't care
How often he takes cold."
"Some fellows do have lots of fun,"
Sighs Jimmy, in the street;
"Up at the window there is one
Who has enough to eat,
And books to read, and clothes to wear,
And pleasant things to see;
I don't believe that boy would care
To change awhile with me."