Opposites

The Half-Soled-Boots-With-Toecaps-Child Walked out into the street And splashed in all the puddles till She had such shocking feet.

The Patent-Leather-Slipper-Child Stayed quietly in the house And sat upon the fender stool As still as any mouse.

The Half-Soled-Boots-With-Toecaps-Child, Her hands were black as ink; She would come running through the house And begging for a drink.

The Patent-Leather-Slipper-Child, Her hands were white as snow; She did not like to play around, She only liked to sew.

The Half-Soled-Boots-With-Toecaps-Child Lost hair ribbons galore; She dropped them on the garden walks, She dropped them on the floor.

The Patent-Leather-Slipper-Child, O thoughtful little girl! She liked to walk quite soberly, It kept her hair in curl.

The Half-Soled-Boots-With-Toecaps-Child When she was glad or proud Just flung her arms round Mother’s neck And kissed her very loud.

The Patent-Leather-Slipper-Child Was shocked at such a sight, She only offered you her cheek At morning and at night.

O Half-Soled-Boots-With-Toecaps-Child, Your happy laughing face Does like a scented Summer rose Make sweet the dullest place.

O Patent-Leather-Slipper-Child, My dear, I’m well content, To have my daughter in my arms, And not an ornament.