A Clever Jeu d’Esprit.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXVII, Issue XV, 12 October 1901, Page 691

A Clever Jeu d’Esprit.

(Discussion as to the authorship of the following lines has been going on in the Wellington papers. One version attributed them to the Hon. J. A. Tole, and another to the late Crosbie Ward.) “Ohau” shall I cross the swift river, “Ohau,” “Waikanae” not swim to the shore; “Otaki” a boat and rapidly row In the “Manawatu” did before; “Orua” way gently, but you must beware Of the “Horowhenua” afloat. The lines have frequently been referred to as a particularly clever jeu d’esprit, but we think that the following effusion on the same lines, the work of an Auckland gentleman, by no means suffer by comparison with them. We would remind those of our readers who are not quite familiar with Maori pronunciation, that Kawhia is sounded as if it were spelled Kafia. THE “MAMAKU.” Said Farmer Hayseed, I’ll go now And drive in the old roan “Kawau.” Then he exclaimed as he drew near, “Wai,” there’s a little “Kawhia.” The “Mamaku" pawed and blew, As if to say “Huia;” The farmer said why “Makaru,” And frighten the calf, you silly “Kawau.” “Apiti” a poor mother “Kawau,” “Waikanae” go and leave me now; Go “Wharepapa” if you dare, “Waihi” would toss you in the air. The “Kawhia” cried “Ohau” can you Worry my “Mamaku;” “Pahi” would give you cause to scatter If he knew what was “Te Mata.” “Opua” mother “Awhitu,” To be worried “Te” whole day through. “Waiwera” singled out this way. Is really “Moa" than I can say. Tell me “Mama,” tell me dear, “Waipa” does not “Kimihia;” And chase this “Mana” way before He annoys us “Hinemoa.” The farmer said “Wairau” my dears, “Kamo” calm all your fears; “Waihou” can “Papa” help you now. I have sent him “Tuakau.” “Omaha,” the calf cried, quite heartbroken, “Turua” words were never spoken; For I heard “Te Poi” say They had sent “Pah” “Aue.” “Whata” a dickens of a row The farmer cried you ill "Manukau;” “Walau” the mischief am I to Bail this wretched “Mamaku.” “Ono” the “Kawhia” cried, I’m sure, If you should ask those “Hunua;” They’d reply, your “Puni” efforts stay, “Waima” in the end will have her way. 8.8. V.