Living

Subtraction

by Laura E. Richards 1850–1943

From In My Nursery (1890)

Living

Six from four leaves two, Mamma,
Six from four leaves two.
Surely that is right, Mamma,--
Don't you think 'twill do?

Please don't shake your head, Mamma!
Well, it's nearly right;
And what difference does it make
If it isn't quite?

Hark! the boys are there, Mamma,
Out upon the lawn;
If I don't go soon, Mamma,
They will all be gone.

I would let you go, Mamma,
Were I teaching you.
Six from four leaves two--oh dear!

Four from six leaves two, Mamma!
Now I have it right.
Well! upon my word, I think
I wasn't very bright.

Dear Mamma, before I go,
Here's a kiss for you.
Four from six leaves two, hurrah!
Four from six leaves two!

MLA

Richards, Laura E. “Subtraction.” Poetry Codex, poetrycodex.com/poem/richards_l/121/.

Chicago

Richards, Laura E. “Subtraction.” Poetry Codex. https://poetrycodex.com/poem/richards_l/121/.

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