OF VAIN COLOURS.

When the century, growing a little bit mellow,

Produces carnations outrageously green;

When you notice a delicate, dairy-like yellow

Adorn the pale face of the best margarine;

When canaries, all warranted excellent singers,

Are sold in the street for a shilling apiece,

But at home all the yellow comes off on your fingers,

Substrata of brown making daily increase;