1891

PUCK LOST AND FOUND

by Lewis Carroll

PUCK LOST AND FOUND

ACROSTIC -

["Inscribed in two books... presented to a little girl and boy, as a sort of memento of a visit paid by them to the author one day, on which occasion he taught them the pastime of folding paper 'pistols'."] -

PUCK has fled the haunts of men:

Ridicule has made him wary:

In the woods, and down the glen,

No one meets a Fairy! -

"Cream!" the greedy Goblin cries

Empties the deserted dairy-

Steals the spoons, and off he flies.

Still we seek our Fairy! -

Ah! What form is entering?

Lovelit eyes and laughter airy!

Is not this a better thing,

Child, whose visit thus I sing,

Even than a Fairy? -

Nov. 22, 1891. -

PUCK has ventured back agen:

Ridicule no more affrights him:

In the very haunts of men

Newer sport delights him. -

Capering lightly to and fro,

Ever frolicking and funning-

"Crack!" the mimic pistols go!

Hark! The noise is stunning! -

All too soon will Childhood gay

Realize Life's sober sadness.

Let's be merry while we may,

Innocent and happy Fay!

Elves were made for gladness! -

Nov. 25, 1891. - -