SONG OF THE ROOTLETS.
Down in the ground, so busy,
Little roots at work;
All of them in a hurry,
Toiling in the dark.
List to their low, deep murmur;
While they work, they sing,
"Gone are the frosts of winter,
Sunshine now of spring.
"Down in the ground, so busy,
Sucking juices up;
By-and-by in a hurry,
Flowers will push up,
Snowdrop, crocus, and lily,
Where the sunshine lies;
Tulips flashing so gayly,
Brightening to the eyes.
"Hidden away in darkness,
Working out of sight;
Yet task have we of gladness,
Bringing flowers to light;
Down in the ground so busy,
Little things are we;
But work of ours is mighty,
Over plant and tree.
"Lightly, please, tread over us,
Do not spurn, despise;
Lovingly, please, think of us,
Covered from your eyes.
Soon, we lift to your wonder
Forms of beauty rare;
Soon, from our hands, surrender
Fragrance to the air."
Ah, little roots, ye teach me
A lesson of the light:
Never to fret, be weary,
Working out of sight.
Patience and courage, ever
Singing at my task;
For this, O Heavenly Father,
Humbly now I ask.
—Child's World.