To Pauline Peareualt and

James O’Brien
(Banquet at Happy Acres)

by George Albert Leddy

Now, you're pretty and sweet, and you may like your meat;

But two days a week, don't forget:

That vegetable stew, and one egg or two;

Is all the vitamin-B, you will get.


Perhaps, if you wish, you could substitute fish;

That's really not—satisfaction.

I have heard it explained, it is good for the brain;

But it's not brains you need now—it's action.


You won't believe what we say, but you'll look back someday;

And murmur, "Alas, it is true:

That loves fondest young dreams, of peaches and cream;

Is mostly—potatoes in stew."


There is no one to blame, and you'll find it the same;

No matter, wherever you go.

I'm not speaking in dreams, you see what I mean;

I've been through it, and sure aught to know.


Well, Polly be gay, and don't mind what we say;

You are fine, and we hope all your life:

That happy you'll be, with your darling Jimmie;

And make him a wonderful Wife.


For he is a boy, that a girl will enjoy;

No finer young man do I know;

And may God in His love, send you joys from above;

And no sorrows—may you ever know.


*****