But boyhood's hopeful, and youth has pluck; And now, when scarcely your steel hath struck The slithery ice in your first bold venture, Punch, friendly watcher, will wish you luck!
He too has seen some novices start, And knows, however you play your part, The "outside edge," and attendant perils, Will tax your sinews and test your heart.
But most on the ice does the old saw hold— "Be bold, be bold, but be not too bold!" Though there's many a rotten patch marked "Danger!" Young hearts are warm if the weather be cold.
Bravo, youngster! Steady! Strike out! Caution, yes, but not palsying doubt. Courage! and you—ere your course you finish— May beat "Fish" Smart at a flying bout!
ROBERT'S KRISMUS HIM.
How werry warious is the reasons why We welcoms Crismus with a ringing cheer! The Skoolboy nos his hollidays is nigh, And treats the hale stout Porter to sum Beer.
The Cook and Ousemaid smiles upon the Baker, Who takes his little fee without no blush, Likewise upon the Butcher and Shoo Maker Who makes their calls dispite the Sno or Slush.
The Dustman cums a crying out for "Dust," But nos full well that isn't wot he seeks, And gits his well-earned shilling with the fust, And smiles on Mary as his thanks he speaks.
The Groser smart, as likewise his Green Brother, In their best close cums with a modest ring, And having got their orders, one and tother, Smilingly asks for jest one other thing.