Which Loved Best?

"I love you, mother," said little John;

Then forgetting his work, his cap went on,

And he was off to the garden swing,

Leaving his mother the wood to bring.

"I love you, mother," said little Nell,

"I love you better than tongue call tell."

Then she teased and pouted half the day,

Till mother rejoiced when she went to play

"I love you, mother," said little Fan,

"To-day I'll help you all I can."

To the cradle then she did softly creep,

And rock the baby till it fell asleep.

Then, stepping softly, she took the broom

And swept the floor and dusted the room.

Busy and happy all day was she,

Helpful and cheerful as child could be.

"I love you, mother," again they said,

Three little children going to bed.

How do you think the mother guessed

Which of them really loved her best?

Joy Allison