Seems to me all a muddle all round. Half the Masters are grinders and grabs,
And the men, when not cynical churls, are too apt to be shirkers and blabs.
I don't see it's a lively look out for my mates, in the country or town,
With "Standards" and School-rates still rising, and most other things going down.
Nice thing for the nippers too, ain't it? The boys may be stuffed at both ends,
Without "technical" knowledge they're wasters; them as tells 'em this truth are their friends.
There 'aint no true "Apprentices" now; seven years of sound teaching don't please.
But the masters and workers appear to be sweet upon freedom and ease;
Old "Indentures" are too long and tight, so they just shuffle on and slop through,
And it's diamond cut diamond all round, till Trade seems just a regular do.