THE BROWNIES IN JAPAN.

More talked about the wretched state
Of people, howsoever great,

Who pin their faith upon a toy
That wind and weather can destroy.
Said one: “’T is painful to behold
At every turn these idols old,

 

Though dumb they sit, a tale they tell
That thoughtful minds may ponder well;

 

Sieh ee ere
EER COX

They hint of millions, strong of will,
Who blindly grope in error still;

There ’s work for pen and preachers too
Before the Christians’ task is through,
For many a purse its mite must yield
And many a teacher take the field,

And many a stubborn knee must bend,
And many an earnest prayer ascend

Ere every idol in this place

Has tumbled headlong from its base.”
Thus moralizing as they ran

The Brownies traveled through J apan,
In the Mikado’s gardens strayed

Where flowers bloomed and fountains played,
While mirror lakes and well-tilled ground
Formed pictures fair for miles around.

 

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