A SITWELL JOKE.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVI, Issue 70, 23 March 1935, Page 2 (Supplement)

A SITWELL JOKE.

"j.c.s." in "punch:." A writer of verse in "Punch" is, apparently, but thinly disguised under the initials "J.C.S." ' Sir John Squire is one of the most accomplished parodists of his time, and if lie means to write for "Punch" he will be an acquisition. An interesting piece of internal evidence on the identity of "J.C.S." is the theme of his poem, "Ballade, Inspired by a Piemark Overheard at a Party" —the theme being Miss Edith Sitwell. The Sitwella have for some time conducted a feud with Sir John, but the la.tter has never lost, his urbanity. Here is the ballade In "Punch": —

I've hail a thoroughly exciting time With sport, Society, politics and war, Few wore the mountains that I did not climb Before T look to aviation more; But, though my claims to fame none could ignore And though I've satisfied my every wish, I'm proudest of my literary lore: I once saw Edith Sitwell buying fish. I've scattered many a rouble, mark and dime In towns from Brady's Gulcli to Bangalore, And, having heard full many a midnight chime. Of anecdotes I have a pretty store; .Lord's still discusses my tremendous score ; I've danced with Miss. Gertruda Garbo-Gish. And once I saw Belisha plain—yes, Hore- ! I once saw Edith Sitwell buying fish ! All things considered, were It not a crime Did 1' not Khure my knowledge What's it for But to enlarge man's grasp of the Sublime? So when I hear some fat portentous bore Making a ring of victims almost snore With empty boasts, I faintly whisper "Pish !" Then leap upon him with the angry roar : "I once saw Edith Sitwell buying fish!" Envoi.

Prince, I am happy In the deep heart's core, Fate brought me butter in a lordly dish, Forgive me if I've mentioned it befoVe: I once saw Edith Sitwell buying fish.