THE MILKWOMAN.

Evening Star, Issue 11673, 4 February 1902, Page 7

THE MILKWOMAN.

She was tall and strong, and she walked along, With a firm, substantial tread, Like one who knows that wherever she goes She is earning her daily bread. Her frock was print, and there was not « hint, In the whole of her simple dress, Of that milliner’s touch which adds so much To a lady's comeliness. Yet she is aware that her face is fair; But she also understands That the best of her charms are her stout red arms, And her strong, hard-working hands. " It’s them,” says she, “as has work’d for me, Wherever ray work has been; And as for my face, why, it’s no disgrace, For I reckon it’s always clean. “ Well, there is Jack, I know, he bothers, But what do I care for him:' I’ll ha’ nothing to say to a lad that's gay, So long as I'vo life and limb! “Such chaps may do for a wench like you. As is fond of an easy life; But if 1 get a man I shall do what I can For to make him a working wife.” She smiled as she spoke, and she settled her yoke On tbs back of her shoulders broad, And she stoop'd to her pails by the area rails, And harnessed herself to her load. Then she went on her beat through ths bustling street, With a step like, a martial man’s: A step that suits her iron-shod boots, And the weight of her clanking cans. For her cans and three had ths bulk of three, And deftly as she, might steer, Twas the silent might of her strength and her height That kept the pathway clear. There were many who eyed her stately stride As she moved through the yielding crowd, With her hands on her hips and a smile on her lips, And a look both calm and proud. Bnt none or few of the gazers knew Tho worth of her humble trade; And beauty alone may never atone For the lot of a milkman's maid. They could not see what was clear to That the loftiest lady there Might envy the part in Dame Nature’s heart Which is owned by Kitty Clare.