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WANDERING WILLIE.
257
" This is the giant," said Willie,
" And I am the valiant knight ;
If only he would not come quite so close,
I think I should like to fight."
But the sheep came closer, and closer yet,
And Willie grew white with fright.
Over the hedge went Willie,
And into the ditch fell he,
But the ground was dry, and nothing was hurt,
Only one dimpled knee.
" This is the mortal combat,
And I am the slain," said he.
" Carry me home, ye maidens,"
As nurse with a frown appears.
" I am a weary pilgrim,
Lost for a hundred years."
" Minutes," said nurse, serenely —
She may have had private fears.
" Did you not miss me?" said Willie ;
The hero dissolved in tears.
