The Half-Soled-Boots-With-Toecaps-Child Walked out into the street And splashed in all the pubbles till She had such shocking feet The Patent-Leather-Slipper-Child Stayed quietly in the house And sat upon the fender stool As still as any mouse. The Half-Soled-Boots-With-Toecaps-Child Her hands were black as ink; She would come running through the house And begging for a drink. The Patent-Leather-Slipper-Child Her hands were white as snow; She did not like to play around, She only liked to sew. The Half-Soled-Boots-With-Toecaps-Child Lost hair ribbons galore; She dropped them on the garden walks, She dropped them on the floor. The Patent-Leather-Slipper-Child O thoughtful little girl! She liked to walk quite soberly, It kept her hair in curl. The Half-Soled-Boots-With-Toecaps-Child When she was glad or proud Just flung her arms round Mother's neck And kissed her very loud. The Patent-Leather-Slipper-Child Was shocked at such a sight, She only offered you her cheek At morning and at night. O Half-Soled-Boots-With-Toecaps-Child Your happy laughing face Does like a scented Summer rose Make sweet the dullest place. O Patent-Leather-Slipper-Child My dear, I'm well content To have my daughter in my arms, And not an ornament.