But mother must have a Christmas gift;

O dear! who’ll give a fellow a lift?

Dear mamma! her hair is pretty and brown,

And her smile so sweet, with never a frown.

I’ll get her something, I will! I will!

But how’ll I get it’s the question still.

I know!—I’ve got such a splendid plan;

’Tis good enough for a grown-up man.

I think my present will be just grand;

’Tis this: I’ll write, in my nicest hand,