Mary Mapes Dodge

Mary Mapes Dodge was an American children's author and editor, best known for her classic novel 'Hans Brinker, or The Silver Skates.' Born in 1831, Dodge married William Dodge in 1851, who tragically died in 1858, leaving her a widow with two sons. Following his death, she turned to writing and editing to support her family. She served as an editor for 'Hearth and Home' magazine and later founded 'St. Nicholas Magazine,' which became one of the most influential children's magazines of the time. She passed away in 1905.

January 26, 1831

August 21, 1905

English

Mary Mapes Dodge

Over The Way

Over the way, over the way,
I've seen a head that's fair and gray;
I've seen kind eyes not new to tears,
A form of grace, though full of years,
    Her fifty summers have left no flaw,
And I, a youth of twenty-three,
So love this lady, fair to see,
    I want her for my mother-in-law!

Over the way, over the way,
I've seen her with the children play;
I've seen her with a royal grace
Before the mirror adjust her lace;
    A kinder woman none ever saw;
God bless and cheer her onward path,
And bless all treasures that she hath,
    And let her be my mother-in-law!

Over the way, over the way,
I think I'll venture, dear, some day
(If you will lend a helping hand,
And sanctify the scheme I've planned);
    I'll kneel in loving, reveren...

Mary Mapes Dodge