LOVE-SONGS OF CHILDHOOD

By Eugene Field

To Mrs. Belle Angler

Dearest Aunt:

Many years ago you used to rock me to sleep, cradling me in your arms and singing me petty songs. Surely you have not forgotten that time, and I recall it with tenderness. You were very beautiful then. But you are more beautiful now; for, in the years that have come and gone since then, the joys and the sorrows of maternity have impressed their saintly grace upon the dear face I used to kiss, and have made your gentle heart gentler still.

Beloved lady, in memory of years to be recalled only in thought, and in token of my gratitude and affection, I bring you these little love-songs, and reverently I lay them at your feet.

Eugene Field Chicago, November 1, 1894

CONTENTS

THE ROCK-A-BY LADY

"BOOH!"

GARDEN AND CRADLE

THE NIGHT WIND

KISSING TIME

JEST 'FORE CHRISTMAS

BEARD AND BABY

THE DINKEY BIRD

THE DRUM

THE DEAD BABE

THE HAPPY HOUSEHOLD

SO, SO, ROCK-A-BY SO!

THE SONG OF LUDDY-DUD

THE DUEL

GOOD-CHILDREN STREET

THE DELECTABLE BALLAD OF THE WALLER LOT