THE BROWNIES CROSS THE ATLANTIC. However, if we fail to reach Norwegian soil, we ll find some beach That to our raft may kinder be Than Norway’s rocks or maelstrom sea.” Thus well encouraged at the start, They soon prepared, through mystic art, A wide affair, where each could rest, And sit or stand as pleased him best, While trusting with a patient heart The ocean to perform its part. Said one: ‘No state-rooms we ’ll provide Wherein a favored few can hide, ‘Nor make a hold or steerage deep Where some in dangerous times might creep; But all alike, through storm or wreck, Must take their chances on the deck.” With willing hands, in manner fine To carry out their grand design, At work the active Brownies stayed, Until the strange concern was made. Of leatherwood and various things They manufactured ropes and strings, Which served them well for many a day With stores and rope-walks far away. With prospects fine the trip began, The sea with even motion ran, And straight for Europe, as a crow ‘Could wing its way, the Brownies go; 20