This poem was not written to bring fame, nor to waft a fortune; for, fame and fortune are but small incidents when compared with the higher things in life. It was composed more for pleasure—the pleasure of meditating on, and the commemorating of, the splendid people who were among the many fine early settlers of this state; and likewise to impart this joy to the readers who may peruse this little story of pioneer days.

Then the old “Spelling Down”—once so common in schools and so brilliant for its academic value, and keen social enjoyment—should be rescued from oblivion; yea even revived.

If the sending forth of these simple stanzas should bear any fruit, may some of these be the happy harvest.

—The Author.

Sylvan Heights,
Marysville, Kansas
Dec. 24, 1921.

THE OLD TIME SPELLING SCHOOL