A very old book, c. 1880's that I have, properly entitled Selections for Children, has this charming little poem in it that I thought I would share.
Little Brown Hands
Little brown hands! Ah! what in under the sun
Tells us so plainly of mischief and fun?
Always from morning to ev'ning so busy,
Tending the dolly or pulling the pussy.
Ready for dinner? Your little chair stands
Ready as you are, dear little brown hands!
Little brown hands that are pulling the flowers
Tended by mother for hours and hours
What will she say when she chances to see
Rosebuds all crumpled as these seem to be?
Darling, that merry smile nothing withstands -
Pluck away, pluck away, little brown hands!
Little brown hands! How at grace they are crossed;
Grace said and over, how quick they are tossed!
Little brown hands that are busy all day,
Getting so healthful and tanned at their play;
Dearer than titles, or honors, or lands
Dearer than all things - little brown hands!
May all of our children have busy little brown hands!
Love,
Sarah
