CURRENT LITERATURE.
GIFT-BOOKS.
Four volumes belonging to "The Children's Favourite Series" (Edward Arnold), are Deeds of Gold, a selection of forty-odd true stories of valiant deeds, some in prose and some in verse (we have a preference for prose, unless the verse be superexcellent) ; My Book of Pales, with our old friends, "The Wind and the Sun," "The Wolf and the Lamb," &c., together with others less familiar (there are some hundred and twenty in all, including ten in verse) ; My Story-Book of Animals, a very interesting collection ; and Rhymes for You and Me. These, again, may be highly praised. It is sometimes thought that slovenly verse is good enough for children, as long as the sentiment and intention are right. The compiler of this volume does not think so ; his choice is seldom at fault. Here is a little rhyming code of politeness which a child might learn by heart to no small advantage :—
" GOLDIN KEYS.
A bunch of golden keys is mine, To make each day with gladness shine.
• Good morning!' that's the golden key, That unlocks every day for me.
When evening comes, Good night ! ' I say, And close the door of each glad day.
When at the table, ' If you please !' I take from off my bunch of keys.
When friends give anything to me, I use a little 'Thank you!' key.
Excuse me ! beg your pardon 1 'too, When by mistake some harm I do.
Or if unkindly harm I've given, • Forgive me ' I shall be forgiven.
On a golden ring these keys I'll bind, This is its motto ' Be ye kind !' "
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