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The School in the Hollow
by Anna Witt
May 22, 1898
Milestones Vol 9 No 2--Spring 1984

Our little white school house
With rooms only two;
Though down in the hollow
Is still within view
Of kind loving neighbors
Who willingly share
In supporting the work
That's progressing there.

From Mother's fond lassie
Not much more than six
To the boy of fourteen
An expert in tricks
We've had in attendance
Throughout the past term
A number exceeding
That heretofore learned.

Time did not linger long
Weeks and months flew by
Every day was needed
A generous supply
Of self-control, patience
With love mingled in.
These, with perserverance
Never failed to win.

How fondly we cherish
Our dear noble youth
Who each day are growing
Inspired with truth
And love, for their brother
Their dear native land
And for God, who always
Will lend us a hand.

In times of affliction
When clouds hover low
He'll help us to conquer
And scatter the foe.
Once more in triumph
Our dear flag shall wave
Proclaiming that Freedom
to Cuba, it gave.

I thank the directors
Who gave me their aid
And think that their efforts
By all should be praised
For work, without money
As they freely do
Proves to us their purpose
Is worthy and true.

Come, come, let us join them
Their work to pursue
They need your assistance
There's so much to do.
And if they are faithful
Their tasks never shirk
Then let us endeavor
To pay for the work.

Once more to the schoolboard
I make this request
When you appoint teachers
Choose me with the rest
And with devine guidance
I will take my stand
Educational work
To further expand.

Some day in the future
My work will be o'er
No more will I enter
This old school house door
The sweet sunny faces
That greeted me there
They too will have vanished
Tis hard to tell where.

Oh, Jesus, kind Shepherd
Guide safely the way
Protect our dear children
Let none go astray
That they may be faithful
Till life's journey ends.
Is the prayer of teacher.
Kind parents and friends.