Prohibition.

Observer, Volume XXIII, Issue 5, 18 October 1902, Page 14

Prohibition.

You'll see lots in Prohibition, if you'll only learn the way To take in all the " Isittn" and the „ "Tommy Taylors" say ; If you'll waive their lack of logic, and just let them have their fling, You'll soon begin to think you're sure there's something in the thing. You mustn't ask them what they mean, or what's the reason why They give you facts and figures that all seem a bit awry. If they spin you little fictions, that are proved to be untrue, You must always try and not forget the object they'd in view. Don't ask them to convince you that their plan's a sure success ; It might cause them anxious moments or a feeling of distress That they found you hard to answer. You will find it your best plan Not to ask them any questions, but to listen all you can. Don't think of asking if their scheme was ever tried elsewhere, And proved a failure. They will say they're sure they were not there. They cannot talk of things unknown ; they've only one idea — That's Prohibition. On that point they're very, very clear. If they hint that legislation's not perhaps the safest plan By which to make a sober, or a good and honest man, They may answer, though 'tis doubtful. If they do they'll say they're sure, Though they haven't any reason, Prohibition is the only cure. You'll find lots in Prohibition if you'll only shut your eyes, And decline to ever argue, or attempt to criticise. If you'll listen to the " pourings fourth " of men with one idea, They will satify you, some day, that their point is very clear. — Verbum Sap. Oamaru, 22nd Sept., 1902.