It's just a tremendous, big, bothersome business,—
That's what it is! But I'm in for it now.
I feel a dizziness. O'Trigger's fizziness
Leads all his friends into mischief and row.
Still, I'm committed; and much to be pitied,
As clearly they'd see if they had any nous.
But odds popguns and peashooters! shall I be twitted
With caution extreme, and the pluck of a mouse?
No, that will not do. I my courage must muster.
Whatever the odds, Fighting Bob must show fight!
So here goes a buster, though bluster and fluster
Are not in my line; yet "indite, Sirs, indite!"
I'll begin with a—swear-word and end with defiance!
Odds daggers and darts, how I'll hector and frown!
My friends on my valour may now place reliance,
The challenge is sent, Sirs, the gauntlet is down!!!
"THE CHALLENGE."
Sir Lucius O'Trigger (the Irish Party). "Then sure you know what is to be done?"
Bob Acres (L-rd R-s-b-ry). "What! fight him?... Odds flints, pans and triggers! I'll challenge him directly!"
THE SCHOOL-BOARD APPLE-PIE.
(Adapted for the Board School Infant Classes.)