Of serpents and reptiles—toads, tadpoles and frogs—

But a saint of our day shows a far greater wonder—

For good Father Matthew’s got alcohol under!

St. Patrick did well—​and we give him a glass

Of pure cold water—so round let it pass!

We drink to his name—’tis a bright one in story,

And, wreathed with green shamrock, shines ever in glory;

For if we will read the old legend aright,

The reptiles he vanquished so bravely in fight

Were druidical monsters—dark errors and crimes—