The Premier and the Socialist

The Premier and the Socialist Were walking through the State: They wept to see the Savings Bank Such funds accumulate. "If these were only cleared away," They said, "it would be great."

"If three financial amateurs Controlled them for a year, Do you suppose," the Premier said, "That they would get them clear?" "I think so," said the Socialist; "They would -- or very near!"

"If we should try to raise some cash On assets of our own, Do you suppose," the Premier said, "That we could float a loan?" "I doubt it," said the Socialist, And groaned a doleful groan.

"Oh, Savings, come and walk with us!" The Premier did entreat; "A little walk, a little talk, Away from Barrack Street; My Socialistic friend will guide Your inexperienced feet."

"We do not think," the Savings said, "A socialistic crank, Although he chance just now to hold A legislative rank, Can teach experienced Banking men The way to run a Bank."

The Premier and the Socialist They passed an Act or so To take the little Savings out And let them have a blow. "We'll teach the Banks," the Premier said, "The way to run the show.

"There's Tom Waddell -- in Bank finance Can show them what is what. I used to prove not long ago His Estimates were rot. But that -- like many other things -- I've recently forgot.

"Advances on a dried-out farm Are what we chiefly need, And loaned to friends of Ms.L.A. Are very good, indeed, See how the back-block Cockatoos Are rolling up to feed."

"But not on us," the Savings cried, Falling a little flat, "We didn't think a man like you Would do a thing like that; For most of us are very small, And none of us are fat."

"This haughty tone," the Premier said, "Is not the proper line; Before I'd be dictated to My billet I'd resign!" "How brightly," said the Socialist, "Those little sovereigns shine."

The Premier and the Socialist They had their bit of fun; They tried to call the Savings back But answer came there none, Because the back-block Cockatoos Had eaten every one.