Pride In Distress

Mistress Polly Poppenjay Went to take a walk one day. On that morning she was dressed In her very Sunday best; Feathers, frills and ribbons gay,-- Proud was Mistress Poppenjay.

Mistress Polly Poppenjay Spoke to no one on her way; Passed acquaintances aside; Held her head aloft with pride; Did not see a puddle lay In front of Mistress Poppenjay.

Mistress Polly Poppenjay Harked to naught the folk could say. Loud they cried, "Beware the puddle!" Plump! She stepped into the middle. And a pretty plight straightway Was poor Mistress Poppenjay.

Mistress Polly Poppenjay; From your pickle others may Learn to curb their pride a little;-- Learn to exercise their wit, till They are sure no puddles may Lie in front, Miss Poppenjay.

Howard Pyle.

at the door of a thin man with empty purse, then at the door with the man well fed and full purse, and finally the saint alone scratching his head.]