A Grand Parade in Rabbit Land

Southland Times, Issue 20201, 11 June 1927, Page 22 (Supplement)

A Grand Parade in Rabbit Land

■ —Highly Commended. — “Come, come, my comrade, A-m arching we wi’/ go,” So said the old black rabbit, To his mate, the old grey doe. “We will have a grand parade, And take our mates along. As we the meadows We will sing a rabbit song. We will sing about the nice green grass, And of the turnips growing near, We will sing about the spring time, And the summer of the year. For it will be a grand parade, And proud we all will be And as we reach the turnip field We’ll be ready for our tea.” —2 marks to Cousin James Amos (11), Mabel Bush. —Highly Commended.— There was a hurry and scurry in rabbitland. There were preparations, simple and grand; For word had come from the Rabbit King’s glade; That this was the night of the Grand Parade. There were merry scenes in Rabbitland. There was gay, good humour, on every hand; As they gathered their finery all to their aid; To help them shine in the Grand Parade. There were lords and dukes in Rabbitland. There were traffic cops so smart and grand; To direct each smiling, bunny maid; To take her place in the Grand Parade. There were prizes and medals in Rabbitland. There were high hopes, too, you’ll understand ; For each hoped they’d not be in the shade When their rigs were judged in the Grand Parade. —2 marks to Cousin .Tames Botting (12), “Terry Hill,” Woodlands. —Highly Commended.— The night was dark and starry, And excitement filled the glade, It was the eve the rabbits Were to hold their Grand Parade. Long before the time appointed, There were rabbits everywhere, Some were dressed in fancy costume, Some in raiment rich and rare. The Grand Parade soon started, Led by soldiers with long ears Then close behind were jesters Who received the bunnies’ cheers. But a rustle in the grass near by, Caused a scamper left and right, A hedge hog had uncurled itself, And looked into the night! —2 marks to Cousin Isa Robertson (12), 110 Chelmsford Street, North Invercargill. —Highly Commended.— In Rabbitland to-day I heard, That they will hold a play. To-night it is I’d like to go, I wonder if I may?

There’re silly laughing bunnies Who jump and scream about. I’d like to see the rabbits, Who give a mighty shout. But soon there comes the whistle For here has come the king, All dressed in shining sparklets Oh! what a funny thing! —2 marks to Cousin Emily Horrell (12) “Fairview,” Mandeville. —Commended.— The Grand Parade in Rabbitland, Marched smartly through the street, Played by a beautiful band, Which sounded clear and sweet. Every button on their suits, Was polished bright and clean. And on their little feet were boots, Made out of the leaves so green. Their suits were of a golden brown, Oh! how they did look sweet; As they marched through the town, From street to lengthening street. Rabbits were popping out, To see the parade pass The baby rabbits rolled about On the bright green grass. —1 mark to Cousin Vita Nelson (11), Green Point, Ocean Beach.