HISTORICAL RHYMES

“Long live the King” the people cried

And cheered with all their might.

They crowded to the vessel’s side

To see King John alight.

“Will he be clad in gold and silk?”

The children, wondering, said.

“Yes, and in ermine, white as milk

With gold upon his head.”

“Will he wear gems about his neck

And hold a sceptre rare?”

“Yes, when he stands upon the deck

You’ll see them flashing fair.”

But lo! whose is that skimpy form

All bare and shivering?

Whose are those thin and naked legs?

It is—great Heavens!—the King!

Why doth he cower beneath a sack,

As cold as lemon-squash?

The regal panoply, alack,

Is missing in the Wash.

“Pansy”