DOMESTIC ASIDES; OR, TRUTH IN PARENTHESES.

“I really take it very kind,

This visit, Mrs. Skinner!

I have not seen you such an age —

( The wretch has come to dinner! )

“Your daughters, too, what loves of girls —

What heads for painters’ easels!

Come here and kiss the infant, dears —

( And give it p'rhaps the measles! )

“Your charming boys I see are home

From Reverend Mr. Russell's;

‘ Twas very kind to bring them both —

( What boots for my new Brussels! )

“What! little Clara left at home?

Well now I call that shabby:

I should have loved to kiss her so —

( A flabby, dabby, babby! )

“And Mr. S., I hope he's well,

Ah! though he lives so handy,

He never now drops in to sup —

( The better for our brandy! )

“Come, take a seat — I long to hear

About Matilda's marriage;

You're come of course to spend the day!

( Thank Heaven, I hear the carriage! )

“What! must you go? next time I hope

You'll give me longer measure;

Nay — I shall see you down the stairs —

( With most uncommon pleasure! )

“Good-bye! good-bye! remember all,

Next time you'll take your dinners!

( Now, David, mind I'm not at home

In future to the Skinners!” )