AGAINST ODDS.

e knew, on that white frosty morning, Our rivals would make an attack, But doubt and timidity scorning, We held on our snow-covered track. They burst from their gate helter-skelter; We counted them—four against two! There wasn't a moment for shelter, And what could we possibly do? The snow-balls like bullets were flying, Retreat was unworthy and mean; So, all their wild volley defying, I slipped my umbrella between. Then I called to my friend, and together, Half sheltered behind it, you know, The storm of the battle to weather, We charged at the midst of the foe. The gateway they bravely defended, Till forced through the half-open door, And thus, in a victory, ended The battle of two against four.