Brownies: Their Book — The Brownies on Roller Skates

And learn the nature of the sport Of which we hear such good report."

To reach the bridge that led to town, With eager steps they hastened down;

But recent rains had caused a rise-- The stream was now a fearful size;

The bridge was nearly swept away, Submerged in parts, and wet with spray.

But when the cunning Brownies get Their mind on some maneuver set, Nor wind nor flood, nor frost nor fire Can ever make the rogues retire.

Some walked the dripping logs with ease, While others crept on hands and knees With movements rather safe than fast, And inch by inch the danger passed.

[Illustration] Now, guided by the rumbling sound That told where skaters circled 'round, Through dimly lighted streets they flew, And close about the building drew.

Without delay the active band, By spouts and other means at hand, Of skill and daring furnished proof And gained possession of the roof;

Then through the skylight viewed the show Presented by the crowds below.

[Illustration] Said one: "While I survey that floor I'm filled with longing more and more, [Illustration] And discontent with me will bide Till 'round the rink I smoothly glide.

At night I've ridden through the air, Where bats abide, and owls repair;

I've rolled in surf of ocean wide, And coasted down the mountain-side;

And now to sweep around a hall On roller skates would crown it all."

"My plans," the leader answer made, "Are in my mind already laid.

Within an hour the folk below Will quit their sport and homeward go;

[Illustration] Then will the time be ripe, indeed, For us to leave this roof with speed, And prove how well our toes and heels We may command when set on wheels."

When came the closing hour at last, And people from the rink had passed, The Brownies hurried down to find The roller skates they'd left behind.

Then such a scene was there as few May ever have a chance to view.

Some hardly circled 'round the place, Before they moved with ease and grace, And skated freely to and fro, Upon a single heel or toe.

Some coats were torn beyond repair, By catches here and clutches there, When those who felt their faith give way, Groped right and left without delay;

[Illustration] While some who strove their friends to aid, Upon the floor themselves were laid, To spread confusion there awhile, As large and larger grew the pile.

[Illustration] Some rose with fingers out of joint, Or black and blue at every point;

[Illustration] And few but felt some portion sore, From introductions to the floor.

But such mishaps were lost to sight, Amid the common wild delight,-- For little plaint do Brownies make O'er bump or bruise or even break.

But stars at length began to wane, And dawn came creeping through the pane;

And much against the will of all, The rogues were forced to leave the hall.

THE BROWNIES AT THE SEASIDE.