I Love You, Mother

"I love you, Mother," said little John,

Then forgetting his work, his cap went on.

And he was off to the garden swing,

Leaving his mother the wood to bring.

"I love you, Mother," said Rosy Nell;

I love you better than tongue can tell.

Then she teased and pouted half the day,

Till all were glad when she went to play.

"I love you, Mother," said little Fran;

"Today I will help you all I can.

How glad I am that school does not keep."

And she rocked the baby till it fell asleep.

Then stepping softly, she brought the broom,

And swept the floor and tidied the room.

Busy and happy all the day was she,

Helpful and cheerful as a child could be.

"I love you, Mother," again they said,

Three little children as they went to bed.

How do you think that mother guessed

Which of them really loved her best?