ONE
NIGHT the Brownies found their way
To where some tracks and switches lay,
And buildings stood, such as are found
In every town on railroad ground.
They moved about from place to place,
With prying eyes and cautious pace
They peeped in shops and gained a view,
Where cars were standing bright and new;
While others, that had service known,
And in some crash were overthrown,
On jack-screws, blocks, and such affairs,
Were undergoing full repairs.
The table that turns end for end
Its heavy load, without a bend,
Was next inspected through and through
And tested by the wondering crew.
They scanned the signal-lights with care
That told the state of switches there,—
Showed whether tracks kept straight ahead,
Or simply to some siding led.
Then round a locomotive strong
They gathered in an earnest throng,
Commenting on the style it showed,
Its strength and speed upon the road.
Said one: "That 'pilot' placed before
Will toss a cow a block or more;
You'd hardly find a bone intact
When such a thing her frame has racked—
Above the fence, and, if you please,
Above the smoke-stack and the trees
Will go the horns and heels in air,
When hoisted by that same affair."
"Sometimes it saves," another cried,
"And throws an object far aside
That would to powder have been ground,
If rushing wheels a chance had found.
I saw a goat tossed from the track
And landed on a farmer's stack,
And though surprised at fate so strange,
He seemed delighted at the change;
And lived content, on best of fare,
Until the farmer found him there."
Another said: "We'll have some fun
And down the road this engine run.
The steam is up, as gauges show;
She's puffing, ready now to go;
The fireman and the engineer
Are at their supper, in the rear
Of yonder shed. I took a peep,
And found the watchman fast asleep.
So now's our time, if we but haste,
The joys of railway life to taste.
I know the engine-driver's art,
Just how to stop, reverse, and start;
I've watched them when they little knew
From every move I knowledge drew;
We'll not be seen till under way,
And then, my friends, here let me say,
The man or beast will something lack
Who strives to stop us on the track."
©2010-2018 wenovel.com, All Rights Reserved
Then some upon the engine stepped,
And some upon the pilot crept,
Join or Log In!
You need to log in to continue reading
(Left Keyword <-) Previous:
THE BROWNIES\' CANDY-PULL.
Back
Next:
THE BROWNIES\' FANCY BALL.
(Right Keyword:->)
All The Data From The Network AND User Upload, If Infringement, Please Contact Us To Delete! Contact Us
About Us | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Tag List | Recent Search ©2010-2018 wenovel.com, All Rights Reserved