To John Bland + 

My Lamb, you are so very small, + 

You have not learned to read at all, + 

Yet never a printed book withstands + 

The urgence of your dimpled hands. + 

So, though this book is for yourself, + 

Let mother keep it on the shelf + 

Till you can read. O days that pass, + 

That day will come too soon, alas! + 