FOR CHILDREN. 155

Bat in the Nile’s proud fight he died,
And I am now an Orphan Boy !

Poor foolish child—how pleased was I,
When news of Nelson’s victory came,

Along the crowded streets to fly, .
And see the lighted windows flame!

To force me home my mother sought,—
She could not bear to see my joy ;

For with my father’s life 'twas bought,
And made me a poor Orphan Boy !

The people’s shouts were long and loud ;
My mother, shuddering, closed her ears ;
* Rejoice! rejoice!” still cried the crowd,— -
My mother answered with her tears.

** Why are you crying so,” said I,
“While others laugh and shout for joy ?”
She kissed me, and with such a sigh,
‘She called me her poor Orphan Boy !

“ What is an Orphan Boy ?” I said,
When suddenly she gasped for breath,
And her eyes closed—I shrieked for aid,
But, ah! her eyes were closed in death !

My hardships since I will not tell ;—
But now no more a parent’s joy, .
Ah! lady, I have learned too well
‘What ‘tis to be an Orphan Boy !
Mrs..O