MY UNCLE. A FRAGMENT. He kept a store, A place of refuge to which all might fly In the dark hour of bleak adversity, When sunshine friends, like summer birds, had flown. He was misfortune's shield,--a goodly man! In fact, so kind a soul could scarce be found; For he would lend to any graceless wight A sum of money, and would never ask His bond or bill, or even say "Be sure To pay me this again next week, or so." He never craved a debtor in his life! * * * * * Around his house, in many a goodly pile, All sorts of wares were ranged in order nice, Shoes, hats, great-coats, and gowns, with many pairs Of certain parts of dress (not pantaloons), Which, it is said, some married females wear. Above his door Invitingly were hung three golden balls, As if to say, "Who pennyless would go?" Here is a banking-house, whence every man Who has an article to leave behind, May draw for cash, nor fear his cheque unpaid. Ah me! full many an ungrateful wight In this same store, without a sigh or tear, Parted his bosom friend , altho' he knew That friend must dwell among the unredeemed .