POETRY.

Marlborough Press, Volume XIII, Issue 818, 11 September 1872, Page 4

POETRY.

THE PERMISSIVE BILL.

The following verses by Lord Neaves, one of the judges of the Scotch Court of Session, will be read with interest at the present time

« Pray, what is this Permissive Bill, That some folks rave about ? I can’t, with all my pains and skill, It’s meaning quite make out.” Oh', it’s a little simple Bill, That seeks to pass incog., To permit me—to prevent you— From having a glass of grog.

If I’m a Quaker sly and dry, Or Presbyterian sour, And look on all with jaundiced eye Who love a joyous hour, Oh, here I’ve my Permissive Bill, You naughty boys to flog, And permit me—to prevent you— From having a glass of grog.

If I have wealth or means enough To import a pipe of wine ; While you a glass of humbler stuff Must purchase when you dine : Oh, then I use my little Bill, While whetting well my prog. To permit me—to prevent you— From buying a glass of grog.

If I’m a fogie quite used up, And laid upon the shelf, Who grudge that you still dine and sup, As I was wont myself : Then I bring in my pretty Bill, To impose a little clog, And permit me—to prevent you— From having a glass of grog.

If you can drink a sober drop, While I the bottle drain ; And as I don’t know when to stop, I’m ordered to “ abstain ” : Oh, then I’ve my Permissive Bill, Since I’m a worthless dog, To permit me—to prevent you— Enjoying a glass of grog.

“ However well a man behaves, Life’s pleasures must he lose. Because a lot of fools or knaves Dislike them or abuse.” Oh, yes, and soon a bigger Bill Will go the total hog, * And permit me—to prevent you— Having mirth as well as grog.