When standing at the window
Awhile the other day,
I heard the sound of laughter
From little ones at play.
First one game, then another
Was chosen next as best,
Till Tommy’s younger brother
Called out. “Now let us rest.”
“No! Let us tell our wishes,”
Said little Teddy Rose;
“My choice is always riches,
As everybody knows.”
They gathered round a doorstep
To hear what each would say,
Well knowing it would only
Be spoken thus in play.
“I—I—I—I” came quickly
From half a dozen boys;
E’en Artie, though so weakly,
Was heard above the noise.
Each wanted to be foremost
To name some wondrous thing,
Although maybe the wishing
Were never known to bring.
Wealth, happiness, and pleasure,
Were spoken of by some;
They’d prove a fading treasure
When this life’s race is run.
“Now! Dickie,” cried the others,
“Come! speak, boy! like the rest,
And let us know what wonders
It is that you’d like best.”
Then Dickie, speaking slowly,
“I wish you all,” said he,
“But knew my blessed Saviour,
And with Him soon might be.”
ML 07/09/1922