  T HE Brownies planned at close of day To reach a town some miles away, Where roller skating, so 'twas said, Of all amusements kept ahead. Said one: "When deeper shadows fall, We'll cross the river, find the hall, On the way And learn the nature of the sport Of which we hear such good report." To reach the bridge that led to town, With eager steps they hastened down; But recent rains had caused a rise— The stream was now a fearful size; The bridge was nearly swept away, Submerged in parts, and wet with spray. But when the cunning Brownies get Their mind on some maneuver set, Nor wind nor flood, nor frost nor fire Can ever make the rogues retire. Some walked the dripping logs with ease, While others crept on hands and knees With movements rather safe than fast, And inch by inch the danger passed. Running to get there Now, guided by the rumbling sound That told where skaters circled 'round, Through dimly lighted streets they flew, And close about the building drew. Without delay the active band, Of skill and daring furnished proof And gained possession of the roof; Then through the skylight viewed the show Presented by the crowds below. Looking through the skylight Said one: "While I survey that floor I'm filled with longing more and more,
"My plans," the leader answer made, "Are in my mind already laid. Within an hour the folk below Will quit their sport and homeward go;
The Brownies hurried down to find The roller skates they'd left behind. Then such a scene was there as few May ever have a chance to view.
While some who strove their friends to aid, Upon the floor themselves were laid, To spread confusion there awhile, As large and larger grew the pile. Skating and falling Some rose with fingers out of joint, Or black and blue at every point;
But stars at length began to wane, And dawn came creeping through the pane; And much against the will of all, The rogues were forced to leave the hall. |
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