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Show LOXG AGO. I once knew all the birds that came And nested in our orchard trees. For every flower I had a name My friends were woodchucks, toads and bees. I knew what thrived in yonder glen What plants would soothe a stone bruised toe Oh, I was very learned then, But vhat was very long ago, , I knew the spot upon the h'll WThere checkerberriea could be found. I knew the rushes neai the mill Where pickerel lay that weighted a pound. I knew the wood, the very tree. Where lived the poaching saucy crow, And all the woods and crows knew me, But that was very long ago. And pining for the joys of youth I tread tne old familiar spot Ouly to learn the solemn truth 1 have forgotten, am forgot. Yet here's this youngest at my knee Knows all the things I used to know. To think I once was wise as he But that was very long ago. I know it's folly to complain Of whatso'er the fates decree; Yet were not wishes all in vain I tell you what my wish should be I'd wish to be a bov again, Back to the friends I used to know, For I was, oh, so happy then. . But that was very long ago. Eugene Field. |