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PEEP AT OUR NEIGHBORS.

‘Tt shall be mine,”’ methought ; but, oh !
The branch was high, my stature low ;
"Twas formed above my humble reach,
The much desired, the downy peach.

‘“‘ But let me bring it here ;”’ and quick
I threw up many a stone and stick ;
Which now and then, as they came down,
Would glance upon my luckless crown.

All vain, unharmed by stone or wood,

The tempting fruit in glory stood ;

*¢ Tll scale the tree ; the branch I’ll clasp ;
No more shall it elude my grasp.”

“‘ Forbear,”’ cried Conscience, in mine ear,
‘“‘ Forbear, you’ll danger see,”’ cried Fear:
I heeded not, but took in count

The easiest way thereon to mount.

Gaining by little or no toil,
The branch which held the tempting spoil,