I supposed he
intended the pieces as missiles, since the desire to throw something
seems instinct in every boy. Consequently, I was very much surprised
when he tossed the pieces into a, vacant lot at the corner and walked
quietly on. As he passed me, whistling, I said:--
"'Why did you pick up that pitcher?'
"'I was afraid it might cut some horse's foot,' he replied.
"My next question was a natural one.
"'Are you a Band of Mercy boy?'
"He smiled as he said:--
"'Oh, yes; that's why I did it.'"
The little story may serve to suggest other ways in which children can
be of service, not only to the animals and to each other, but to the
world of grown-up men and women. Fragments of orange and banana skins
make our sidewalks dangerous as well as unsightly; rusty nails and bits
of glass may do much harm which the truly helpful child will prevent.
There is a mutual helpfulness among animals which is very beautiful to
see. They will come together for defence and to get food, and sometimes
help each other in sickness and trouble. A blind swan was fed with fish
brought twice a day by other swans from a lake thirty miles away. An
English sparrow pluckily rescued his mate from a big snowdrift at the
risk of his life.
Pages:
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198