Poem by Katherine Mansfield

A Few Rules for Beginners

Babies must not eat the coal
And they must not make grimaces,
Nor in party dresses roll
And must never black their faces.

They must learn that pointing’s rude,
They must sit quite still at table,
And must always eat the food
Put before them--if they’re able.

If they fall, they must not cry,
Though it’s known how painful this is;
No--there’s always Mother by
Who will comfort them with kisses.

1. On a Young Lady’s Sixth Anniversary
2. The Family
3. The Awakening River
4. The Gulf
5. Song of Karen, the Dancing Child

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