32
POEMS BY CLARA A. MERRILL
AS IT HAPPENED
As the circus train passed through the street An Elephant caught the eye Of a "rural duffer," who remarked As the creature lumbered by,—While a wondering look stole o 'er his phiz— (No artist's hand could paint it;) "Wa-al neow, Maria,—I swan to man That's quite an insect, aint it?"
A city swell heard the remark, And quickly turned his nose Up, with an air that plainly said: "Such horrid folks as those May go their way—for they'll pollute The very atmosphere With their uncouth ways and ignorance— We can't endure them here!"
The time rolled on,—and the city swell Was brought to account one day For the many bills and debts he owed— He had not a cent to pay.
