10 HOME AMUSEMENTS.

RIDDLE XVII.

SAY, what is that the infant smile displays,
Whilst on its little form we fondly gaze;

And, like a circling halo, seems to shed

A lambent glory round its lovely head ?

But soon, too soon, alas! in after life,

Amidst conflicting passions’ raging strife,

The charm is lost; and then we vainly mourn

This first bést gift which never can return !

Happy the few, who, in the arms of death, ,

Hold fast this treasure to their latest breath ;

Serenely they may sink into the tomb,

“ And wake to rapture in a life to come.”

 

RIDDLE XVIII.

[™ strangely capricious, I’m sour or I’m sweet,

To housewives am useful, to children a treat ;
Yet I freely confess I more mischief have done,
Than anything else that is under the sun.

 

RIDDLE XIX.

HOUGH made by art, ’tis nature gives.me voice ;
I answer all, yet never speak, by choice :