Vainly I strove the wholesome parts to cherish;

But nought remained of what is now so dear:—

Only with life shall the remembrance perish,

How bad potatoes have turned out this year!

THE RIVER.
BY COVENTRY PATMORE.

It is a venerable pier,

Though anything but sound;

So old, the Rainbow shatters it,

To Hungerford when bound;

And over all the mud expanse