Maria had an aunt at Leeds, For whom she made a purse of beads; 'Twas neatly done, by all allow'd, And praise soon made her vain and proud. Her mother, willing to repress This strong conceit of cleverness, Said, "I will show you, if you please, A honeycomb, the work of bees! "Yes, look within their hive, and then Examine well your purse again; Compare your merits, and you will Admit the insects' greater skill!" |