The Humourous Poetry of the English Language

457
Another time--years since the last--
At eating-house I sought relief
From present care and troubles past,
In a small plate of round of beef.
"One beef, and taturs," was the cry,
In tones than mine much stronger;
'T was the old waiter standing by,
"Waiting a little longer."
I've marked him now for many a year;
I've seen his coat more rusty grow;
His linen is less bright and clear,
His polished pumps are on the go.
Torn are, alas! his Berlin gloves--
They used to be much stronger,
The waiter's whole appearance proves
He can not wait much longer.
I sometimes see the waiter still;
'Gainst want he wages feeble strife;
He's at the bottom of the hill,
Downward has been his path through life.
Of "waiter, waiter," there are cries,
Which louder grow and stronger;
'Tis to old Time he now replies,
"Wait a little longer."
[Illustration: Oliver Wendell Holmes]
THE LAST APPENDIX TO "YANKEE DOODLE."
PUNCH, 1851.
YANKEE DOODLE sent to Town
His goods for exhibition;
Every body ran him down,
And laugh'd at his position.
They thought him all the world behind;
A goney, muff, or noodle;
Laugh on, good people--never mind--