My Kingdom: A Poem

THE METHODS AND MOTIVES OF SCIENCE. 259

Church. The scientist in his self-denying earnest labors is a true child of God ; as he is strengthened spiritually will his work be the better. The scientific spirit is divine.

MY KINGDOM. LOUISA M. ALCOTT. {Written in her diary when only fourteen.)

A little kingdom I possess, Where thoughts and feelings dwell, And very hard I find the task Of governing it well; For passion tempts and troubles me, A wayward will misleads. And selfishness its shadow casts On all my words and deeds. How can I learn to rule myself. To be the child I should, Honest and brave, nor ever tire Of trying to be good? How can I keep a sunny soul To shine along life's way? How can I tune my little heart To sweetly sing all day? Dear Father, help me with the love That casteth out my fear; Teach me to lean on thee, and feel That thou art very near, That no temptation is unseen, No childish grief too small. Since thou, with patience infinite, Doth sooth and comfort all.

I do not ask for any crown But that which all may win, Nor seek to conquer any world Except the one within. Be thou my guide until I find. Led by a tender hand. Thy happy kingdom in myself, And dare to take command.

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COLLECTION OF ANECDOTES.

[In a recent number of the Era, missionaries and others were asked to write anecdotes illustrating topics of interest which had come under their observation. In response to this request, several communications have been received, two of which are herewith presented. We repeat the request, and ask our friends to write and send us anecdotes. Editors.]