Dot H.
Freeport, Illinois.
I am a little boy seven years old. I have had a dear little sister, who has always read me the paper every week, and we were so happy, and enjoyed it so much together, but in June Jesus took her to heaven, and I am very lonely without her, for we loved each other very dearly. She was thirteen years old. Papa and mamma read to me now, but I am going to work hard when school commences, so that I may soon read to myself.
I dreamed last night that sister Ida came back. I went out to the gate to meet her, and talked with her, and the talk was pleasant. I asked her if she was not hungry, and wanted her to come into the house and get something to eat, but she said she was never hungry now; and then she was gone again away from me, and I woke up.
I have five pets this summer—a mocking-bird, a canary, a bunting (or Mexican canary), a parrot, and a white rabbit. The parrot talks a great deal—calls "Papa," "Albert," "Kitty," says "Good-by," whistles, and does a good many other things. The rabbit gets into her cage, and helps eat up her dinner, and Polly does not care a bit, for they are very good friends.
Mamma has done the writing for me, for it is such hard work for me, and takes so long. I like the new story of "Tim and Tip" very much.
Albert W. B.
Holly Springs, Mississippi.
My uncle is editor of The South, and takes your paper, which we all enjoy reading. I saw C. H. Williamson's idea of a Natural History Society, and liked it so much that I made up a club. When we had our first meeting, July 27, 1881, Mary Burton was elected President, and I was elected Secretary. We took the katydid for our first subject, and were much interested in the little creature. One of our members asked if the katydid is found in all parts of the world, and none of us could tell. Can Mr. Williamson give us any information? There are only five members in our society, but we very much enjoy our meeting once in every two weeks.
I read all the stories in Young People, and like "Toby Tyler" best of all, and next Jimmy Brown's stories. I wish he would write oftener. Our whole household was interested in "Toby Tyler." I have a little sister who has been playing on the piano ever since she was three years old. One lady called her a second Mozart. I love to live in Holly Springs, though it is a small place. It is called the "City of Flowers," but the weather has been so warm and dry there are not many flowers this summer. Not to make my letter too long, I will close.
Mamie Clark.
President Williamson will please notice the inquiry addressed to him, and reply in our Post-office Box.