The clothes-line is a Rosary Of household help and care; Each little saint the Mother loves is represented there. And when across her garden plot She walks, with thoughtful heed, I should not wonder if she told Each garment for a bead. For Celia's scarlet stockings hang Beside Amelia's skirt, And Bilbo's breeches, which of late Were sadly smeared with dirt. You kerchief small wiped bitter tears For ill-success at school; This pinafore was torn in strife 'Twixt Fred and little Jule. And that device of finer web, And over-costly lace, Adorned our Eldest when she danced At some gay fashion place. A stranger passing, I salute The Household in its wear, And smile to think how near of kin Are love and toil and prayer. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...YOUTH'S IMMORTALITY by GEORGE SANTAYANA THE FORSAKEN MERMAN by MATTHEW ARNOLD BIRCH STREAM by ANNA BOYNTON AVERILL THE ROMANCE OF THE SWAN'S NEST by ELIZABETH BARRETT BROWNING MY AIN COUNTRIE by MARY LEE DEMAREST ODE ON THE PLEASURE ARISING FROM VICISSITUDE by THOMAS GRAY THE GRASSHOPPER AND CRICKET by JOHN KEATS |