Forbids the needful purchases at home,

And shuts the door of welcome on their friends.

The petty processes of law to stop,

To prove how groundless are the landlords fears;

Or gain fresh credit at the chandler’s shop,

By paying off the grocery arrears.

Far from all dreams of splendid opulence,

Their wish is answered if their way they clear;

Well can they dine for twelve or thirteen pence,

Including waiter, and a pint of beer.