should have studied
last night; but instead of that, you got into a scrape, which promises
to make trouble for you; and this morning you played ball instead of
taking time for your work.

_John._ Well, I meant to have studied it yesterday, but I thought I
had plenty of time. I wanted a little recreation.

_Charley._ Yes, John; but you should look out for the lessons first,
and not neglect them. Come, let's go to school.

_John._ And be at the foot of the class. I don't like this.

_Ralph._ You'll find a remedy for it in the copy-book.

_John._ What is it?

_Ralph._ A warning to the dilatory--"Procrastination is the thief of
time."

[_Exeunt_, R.

THE RAIN-DROPS.

T.H. EVANS.

A farmer had a field of corn of rather large extent,
In tending which, with anxious care, much time and toil he spent;
But after working long and hard, he saw, with grief and pain,
His corn began to droop and fade, because it wanted rain.

So sad and restless was his mind, at home he could not stop,
But to his field repaired each day to view his withering crop.
One day, when he stood looking up, despairing, at the sky,
Two little rain-drops in the clouds his sad face chanced to spy.

"I very sorry feel," said one, "to see him look so sad;
I wish I could do him some good; indeed, I should be glad.
Just see the trouble he has had; and if it should not rain,
Why, all his toil, and time, and care he will have spent in vain."

"What use are you," cried number two, "to water so much ground?
You're nothing but a drop of rain, and could not wet one mound."
"What you have said," his friend replied, "I know is very true;
But I'm resolved to do my best, and more I cannot do.

I'll try to cheer his heart a bit: so now I'm off--here goes!"
And down the little rain-drop fell upon the farmer's nose.
"Whatever's that?" the farmer cried. "Was it a drop of rain?
I do believe it's come at last; I have not watched in vain."

Now, when the second rain-drop saw his willing friend depart,
Said he, "I'll go as well, and try to cheer the farmer's heart."
But many rain-drops by this time had been attracted out,
To see and hear what their two friends were talking so about.

"We'll go as well," a number cried, "as our two friends have gone.
We shall not only cheer his heart, but water, too, his corn.
We're off! we're off!" they shout with glee, and down they fell so
fast.
"O ble