Correspondence.

Southern Cross, Volume 11, Issue 25, 19 September 1903, Page 7

Correspondence.

[To the Editor.] Sir, — I was greatly pleased that the House of Representatives by such a large majority (42 to 16) rejected the bill introduced by Mr Ell to deprive barmaids of their means of livelihood' My sympathies are always with the weak and oppressed, especially when they are females. I have composed a short poem which I hope may cheer, or amuse some of the young ladies interested. —Yours truly, Andw. Kinross.

ODE TO A BARMAID.

She stands in her bar so pleasant and sweet, -Lady-like, cheerful, attractive, and neat ; Chatting gaily with friends, courteous to all, Patiently serving whoever may call. Think her not sullen if she may be sad, We cannot always seem happy and glad ; She may be weary, she may be in pain, Striving courageously not to complain. She may be friendless, or far from a friend, Seeking so bravely on self to depend ; She may have relatives poor to maintain, Hoping to save them from hunger or pain. Treat her with courtesy, never be rude, Never say aught is not manly and good ; Always regard it a gentleman’s test, When looking at ladies, to hope for the best^ May some gallant young man make her his wife, May she have a home that never knows strife ; May she with pleasure look back from afar On times when she cheerfully served in the bar. Invercargill, 14th Sept., 1903.