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McGuffey's Second Reader

Lesson XVII.

MY GOOD-FOR-NOTHING

1.     "What are you good for, my brave little man?
Answer that question for me, if you can,--
You, with your fingers as white as a nun,--
You, with your ringlets as bright as the sun.
All the day long, with your busy contriving,
Into all mischief and fun you are driving;
See if your wise little noddle can tell
What you are good for. Now ponder it well."

2.     Over the carpet the dear little feet
Came with a patter to climb on my seat;
Two merry eyes, full of frolic and glee,
Under their lashes looked up unto me;
Two little hands pressing soft on my face,
Drew me down close in a loving embrace;
Two rosy lips gave the answer so true,
"Good to love you, mamma, good to love you."

Emily Huntington Miller