British Anthologies Volume 10

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1901 Excerpt: ...in an instant, poor Harlequin fell! Yet he touched not the ground; but, with talons outspread, Hung suspended in air at the end of a thread. Then, the Grasshopper came with a jerk and a spring, Very long was his leg, though but short was his wing; He took but three leaps, and was soon out of sight; Then chirped his own praises all the rest of the night. With step so majestic, the Snail did adVance, And promised the gazers a Minuet to dance; But they all laughed so loud, that he pulled in his head, And went in his own little chamber to bed. Then, as evening gaVe way to the shadows of night, Their Watchman, the Glowworm, came out with a light. 'Then home let us hasten, while yet we can see! For no Watchman is waiting for you and for me.' So said little ROBERT; and, pacing along, His merry companions returned in a throng. A Soldier am I, the world over I range; And would not my lot with a Monarch exchange! How welcome a Soldier, wherever he roves, Attended, like Venus, by Mars and the Loves! How dull is the Ball, how cheerless the Fair! What 's a feast, or a frolic? if we are not there! Kind, hearty, and gallant, and joyous, we come; And the World looks alive at the sound of the Drum! 'The Soldiers are coming!' the villagers cry; All trades are suspended to see us pass by. Quick flies the glad sound to the Maiden upstairs; In a moment dismissed are her broom and her cares! Outstretched is her neck till the Soldiers she sees, From her cap the red ribbon plays light in the breeze; But lighter her heart plays, as nearer we come; And redder her cheek at the sound of the Drum! The Veteran, half dozing, awakes at the news, Hobbles out, and our column with triumph reviews; Near his knee, his young grandson, with ecstasy, hears Of Majors, and Generals, and fierce Brig...