Explore "The Child-World" by James Whitcomb Riley on Textopian. Read with annotations and highlights.
A Child-World, yet a wondrous world no less, / To those who knew its boundless happiness.
A simple old frame house -- eight rooms in all -- / Set just one side the center of a small / But very hopeful Indiana town, -- / The upper-story looking squarely down / Upon the main street, and the main highway / From East to West, -- historic in its day, / Known as The National Road -- old-timers, all / Who linger yet, will happily recall / It as the scheme and handiwork, as well / As property, of "Uncle Sam," and tell / Of its importance, "long and long afore / Railroads wuz ever _dreamp_' of! " -- Furthermore, / The reminiscent first Inhabitants / Will make that old road blossom with romance / Of snowy caravans, in long parade / Of covered vehicles, of every grade / From ox-cart of most primitive design, / To Conestoga wagons, with their fine / Deep-chested six-horse teams, in heavy gear, / High names and chiming bells -- to childish ear / And eye entrancing as the glittering train / Of some sun-smitten pageant of old Spain.