The father, a well digger, strong was he, And as loving and kind as a 
father could be.

And Mary his daughter, five years old, Was very much dearer than millions
of gold. 

To Mary her father was big, grand and nice, So each had a treasure, beyond
any price. One day to the well, little Mary was sent To take daddy's 
lunch, how gladly she went.

But when she looked down, not a thing could be seen. The well, like a 
pocket, was dark as could be. The father saw Mary and heard her voice, 
too, But made not a sound, just to see what she'd do.

She dropped to her knees, the dear little soul, And called down, "Oh, 
Daddy, are you down this hole?" 

"Why yes Mary darling, I'm here at your feet, Just drop my lunch for I'm 
ready to eat. Just let it go easy, I'll catch it alright." She did and she
saw it fall out of sight. "Why Mary," said father, "There's enough here 
for two, Now this is the thing I would like you to do. You jump down here
to me and we'll eat it together, Down here in the cool and away from the 
weather."

"Oh, daddy, I'm afraid, I can't see you at all, Be sure now you catch me 
and don't let me fall." 'Twas just for a moment she wavered in doubt, Then
closing her dear little eyes she jumped out. In the darkness, yes, that 
was the test, She trusted in faith in her father's request. And both were
so happy he kissed her and smiled Because of the sweet trusting faith of 
his child.

"Oh, sweet little Mary, you put me to shame, How often my Father has 
called me the same, But because it was dark I turned back in doubt. 
Refusing the call, though his arms were stretched out."

© copyright 1998 David Velazquez