“I Can’t,” “I’ll Try.”


THERE were two little sisters, 

Luella and Bell,

In their persons no difference you'd spy;

But Luella endeavored to do all things well,

While Bell would not even try.

If a difficult task were proposed 

by their aunt,

One might always foretell the reply;

Bell would always drawl out a languid, 

" I can't,"

While Luella would answer, 

"I'll try."

If a new piece of music to either were sent,

Why, Bell would at once lay it by,

Say, " I'm sure I can't learn it," 

and rest quite content

That Luella should take it, and try.

A church they both sketched from a copy well drawn,

And each made the tower awry;

"I can't do it straight," 

Bell exclaimed, with a yawn;

But Luella still said, "I will try."

Now which of these girls do you think would excel?

I am sure you will instantly cry,

"Not the languid, inactive, and indolent Bell,

But Luella, who always would try."

Let all, then, 

who wish to be happy and wise,

With zeal to their duties apply;

If the sad words, "I can't," 

to their lips should arise,

Let them change them at once for 

"I'll try."





YI