Little Ellen’s Request

“I do not like this dress of mine,”
Said little Ellen to her mother;
“The girls at school are dressed so fine,—
I wish that I could have another.

“Do buy me one that’s very gay,
And a new bonnet trimmed with lace,—
Unless I look as smart as they
I feel ashamed to show my face.”

Her mother said, “Ellen, my dear,
Your clothes, I’m sure, are very good;
Nor would I wish you to appear
So fine and gaudy if you could.

“I try to dress you neat and plain,
That I may buy you useful books;
And if you’re neither proud nor vain,
I’m sure our friends will like your looks.

“Whene’er I dress you, I must say,
Would God be pleased with things like these?
For, Ellen, we must seek each day
In all we do our God to please.