Page 50 - HSLChristmasAnthology

HSL Christmas Anthology Page 50
AND THE POOR CHILDREN. 27

man in one of the walks, and others were
playing at bat and ball. From one of the
houses came the sound of music, and of hap
py children's voices. The ride, the invigor
ating air, and the pleasant sounds, seemed
to rouse the mother from her lethargy. She
looked round bewildered, as if wondering
where she was. The gentleman led them
in, and a multitude of little folks flocked
around thetn. " Here, my children," said
he, " I have brought some new comrades, to
help you play and work." They all began
to jump and caper. A blind man sat by the
fire-side, with a flute in his hand. He war
bled the first notes of a joyful tune, and the
children, of their own accord, took hold of
each others' hands, and formed a circle
round the new comers, singing,
Welcome, children, welcome here,
Where perfect love has cast out fear !
Here we work the live-long day,
And that makes us enjoy our play.
Welcome, little children dear,
For the Christ-child brought you here.
There was a large evergreen tree in the
middle of the table, with gay ribbons in the
branches, and among the topmost boughs
nestled the image of an angel-child, with
large mild eyes, and shining wings. The