SONGS FOR THE

MOTHER.

The lambs sleep in the fields, ’t is true,
Without a lullaby ;

And yet they are as warm as you
Beneath a summer sky.

They choose some dry and grassy spot,
Beneath the shady trees ;

To other songs they listen not
Than the pleasant evening breeze.

And when the night is bitter cold,
The shepherd comes with care,

And leads them to his peaceful fold ;
They’re safe and sheltered there.

How happy are the lambs, my love,
How safe and calm they rest ;

But you a Shepherd have above,
Of all kind shepherds best.

His lambs he gathers in his arms,
And in his bosom bears ;

How blest, how safe from all alarms,
Each child his love who shares!

Oh, if you'll be his gentle child,
And listen to his voice,

Be loving, dutiful, and mild,
How will mamma rejoice!

Mary Lundie Duncan.