Classic Poem

Sometimes I keep
From going to sleep,
To hear the katydids " cheep-cheep! "
And think they say
Their prayers that way;
But katydids don't have to pray!

I listen when
They cheep again;
And so, I think, they're singing then!
But, no; I'm wrong, —
The sound's too long
And all-alike to be a song!

I think, " Well, there!
I do declare,
If it is neither song nor prayer,
It's talk — and quite
Too vain and light
For me to listen to all night! "

And so, I smile,
And think, — " Now I'll
Not listen for a little while! " —
Then, sweet and clear,
Next " cheep " I hear
'S a kiss . . . . Good morning, Mommy dear!