The precept is sound, and its due application
Is fraught with undoubted advantage to some,
But I'm free to remark that my own situation
Represents a recalcitrant re-sidu-um;
Clocks I cannot abide with their truculent ticking—
A nuisance I always have striven to scotch—
And I gain very little assistance in sticking
To work, if I'm watching my watch.
For my watch, which I treasure with ardent affection—
'Twas given to me in my juvenile prime—