[By BON GAULTIER in Tait's Edinburgh Magazine].

I

Who, when a baby, lank and thin,
I called for pap and made a din,
Lulled me with draughts of British gin?—
My mother.

II

When I've been out upon the spree,
And not come home till two or three,
Who was it then would wallop me?—
My mother.

III

Who, when she met a heavy swell, [1]
Would ease him of his wipe so well, [2]
And kiss me not to go and tell ?—
My mother.

IV

Who took me from my infant play,
And taught me how to fake away.
And put me up to the time of day?— [3]
My mother.

V