“I love you, Mother,” said little John:
But forgetting his work, his cap went on,
And off he ran to the garden swing,
And left her the water and wood to bring.
“I love you, Mother,” said rosy Nell,
“I love you better than tongue can tell”:
Then she teased and pouted full half a day,
Till mother was glad when she went to play.
“I love you, Mother,” said little Fan,
“Today I will help you all I can:
I’m glad that we have no school this week.”
So she rocked the baby till it fell asleep.
Then, stepping softly, she brought the broom,
And swept the floor and tidied the room;
Busy and happy all day was she,
Helpful and happy as child could be.
“I love you, Mother,” again they said,
Three little children going to bed.
How do you think that mother guessed
Which of the little ones loved her best?
ML 08/22/1954