Yawcob Strauss and Other Poems/Economy




 * "There's nothing like economy,"
 * I heard a chap remark,
 * Who, judging by his tout ensemble,
 * Had issued from the ark.


 * He was a most peculiar man,
 * With visage wan and thin,
 * And liquid drops of amber hue
 * A-trickling down his chin.


 * "They tell us it's extravagant,"
 * He added with a shrug,
 * As he deposited a quid
 * Within his spacious "mug," —


 * "They tell us it's extravagant,
 * This ' chewing of the weed;'
 * But only use ' economy,'
 * You'll never be in need.


 * "And this is how to practise it:
 * Chew your tobacco well,
 * Using a little at a time,—
 * It nat'rally will swell;


 * "Then take the quid and dry it, sir!"—
 * 'Twas thus the fellow spoke,—
 * "And, when you want a quiet whiff,
 * Put in your pipe, and smoke.


 * "And, stranger, after doing this,
 * If you are fond of snuff,
 * The ashes that are left behind
 * Will serve you well enough.


 * "And thus," said this peculiar man
 * (I fear he did but joke,)
 * " If you will follow my advice,
 * It will not end in smoke."