Maria'S Charity

Maria's aunt, who lived in Town, Once wrote a letter to her niece, And sent, wrapp'd up, a new half-crown, Besides a pretty pocket-piece.

Maria jump'd with joy and ran To tell her sister the good news; She said, "I mean to buy a fan, Come, come along with me to choose."

They quickly tied their hats, and talk'd Of yellow, lilac, pink, and green; But far the sisters had not walk'd, Before the saddest sight was seen.

Upon the ground a poor lame man, Helpless and old, had tumbled down; She thought no more about the fan, But gave to him her new half-crown.