Peter Parley's Tales of the Sun, &c...178 The Planetary and Terrestrial Worlds comparatively considered Anx'ious, concerned; off'spring, young ones; hov'er-ing, hanging over head; dis-ap-point'ed, deprived; pe'ri-od, season; nourished, supported; ac'cents, words; ad-min'istered, gave; cher'ish, encourage; sen'ti-ment, thought; mer'its, deserves; ta'lons, claws. MARK that parent hen, said a father to his beloved son. With what anxious care does she call together her offspring, and cover them with her expanded wings! The kite is hovering in the air, and, disappointed of his prey, may perhaps dart upon the hen herself, and bear her off in his talons. Does not this sight suggest to you the tenderness and affection of your mother! Her watchful care protected you in the helpless period of infancy, when she nourished you with B her milk, taught your limbs to move, and your tongue to lisp its unformed accents. In your childhood, she mourned over your little griefs; rejoiced in your innocent delights; administered to you the healing balm in sickness; and instilled into your mind the love of truth, of virtue, and of wisdom. Oh! cherish every sentiment of respect for such a mother. She merits your warmest gratitude, esteem, and veneration. |