Page:The Battle for Bread (1875).pdf/81

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"In the varied scenes of life,

Is there a joy so sweet,

As when amidst its busy strife,"

Our payments we can meet.

My dear, the landlord called to-day,

And asked me for the rent:

With crimson face, I stammered out,

Truly I've not a cent.

He left me quite dissatisfied,

And looked so cross and sour,

I sighed, when shall I be released,

From landlords' crushing-power?

Again the door bell summoned me

To meet a new demand;

"Your water tax, ma'am, here's the bill,

Ten-twenty madam—and,

Please pay it in, soon as you can,

We're very much in need,

'Twill help us some; our "Water Bonds"

Are badly mixed indeed.

Just then the children came from school,

And out of breath, said Kate,

"My teacher has promoted me,

And said to bring a slate."

"My feet are wet, my boots worn out,

And every step I tread,

The water gushes in and out,"

Said doleful little Ned.