David Rands has kindly shared with readers of the Victorian Web his site about the life and works of W. B. Rands, the prolific writer of children's literature and originator of The Boy's Own Paper. Readers may wish to consult this site for more information about this little-known figure who had an immense influence upon Victorian children. [GPL]
Brown eyes,
Straight nose;
Dirt pies,
Rumpled clothes;
Torn books,
Spoilt toys;
Arch looks,
Unlike a boy's;
Little rages,
Obvious arts;
(Three her age is)
Cakes, tarts.
Falling down
Off chairs;
Breaking crown
Down stairs;
Catching flies
on the pane;
Deep sighs,—
Cause not plain;
Bribing you
With kisses
For a few
Farthing blisses;
Wide awake,
As you hear,
"Mercy's sake,
Quiet dear!"
New shoes,
New frock;
Vague views
Of what's o'clock
When it's time
To go to bed,
And scorn sublime
For what is said;
Folded hands,
Saying prayers,
Understands
Not, nor cares;
Thinks it odd,
Smiles away;
Yet may God
Hear her pray!
Bedgown white,
Kiss dolly;
Goodnight! -
That's Polly,
Fast asleep,
As you see;
Heaven keep
My girl for me!
Last modified 21 August 2005