And plans far too entangled, I'm afraid,

To enumerate in this uncouth narration,

For if upon such topics here I strayed,

'Twould take from now till doomsday, so it's best unsaid.

LXIV.

They'd had a call or two from neighbours near

Whose company was jovial as could be;

So their Mamma first started the idea

That they should ask three gentlemen to tea

Out in the hayfield, where they would be free,

To help in tossing o'er the scented hay;

Then all assemble underneath the tree,

And chatter anything they'd like to say,

While Julia handed round refreshment on a tray.[23]

[23]

LXV.

All was decided, and a note was sent,

Penned with Mamma's gold pen and sealed with care,

And Julia brought a note to the intent

That they would be most happy to be there;

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