EVERY CLOUD HATH SILVER LINING (In response to "Pennies In The Box" by R. F. D. carrier No. 1, Buckfield.) It is said that there are sunbeams Shining in the distant blue; Tho' the dark and angry storm-clouds May obscure them from our view, Thus, mayhaps, the seeming hardships Of the rural carrier's lot Are but shadows, merely flitting Lest the sunbeams get too hot. Though at times, the mailman's fingers Are half frozen, and he talks Language of his own invention,-- Cursing "pennies in the box."-- Though obliged to doff his mittens In the zero wind, intent On opening an icy mail-box-- Struggling with a wayward "cent." He should ne'er let angry passions Vex his spirit--cloud his brow,-- For, beyond the sombre cloudlet There are sunbeams shining now! He can breathe "health-giving ozone" With no doctor's fees to pay-- All distructive germs dispelling By "Fresh-air-cure" every day! He should count the many blessings That around his pathway creep-- No matter if the path's blockaded By a snow drift hard and deep,-- He should cultivate his patience With a fortitude most rare; Ne'er should frown beset his features-- Never even wish to swear! These R. F. D. chaps should be happy, But, alas, contentment damps When they worry that "we patrons" Don't lay in a stock of stamps,-- If they'd gather up our pennies And not grumble, they would see Each and every patron murmur Blessings on the R. F. D.!"