Читать книгу The Lazy Minstrel - Ashby-Sterry Joseph - Страница 13

LAZY LAYS
THE TAM O' SHANTER CAP

Upon the Spa at Scarborough, the Minstrel was a panter —

He asked a Wilful Maiden why she wore a Tam o' Shanter?

She gazed upon his furrowed face, half doubting if he chaffed her,

Then, noting well his solemn mien, she answered thus, with laughter —

LET others wear, upon the Spa,

The "Rubens" hat or bonnet;

The "Gainsborough," the Tuscan straw,

With marguerites upon it —

The "Pamela," of quaint design,

The "Zulu," or the "Planter" —

But as for me, I much incline

To wear my Tam o' Shanter!

Let others sport the fluffy hat,

The "Sailor Boy," or "Granny;"

The "Bargee," or some other that

Is anything but canny.

If petticoats be short or long,

Or fuller be or scanter,

Or if you think it right or wrong —

I'll wear my Tam o' Shanter!

I'll wear it if it's hot or cold,

Let weather what it may be!

Will this Child do "what she is told"?

Or is she quite a baby?

I do not care for my Mama,

Or Cousin Charlie's banter;

Despite the chaff of dear Papa,

I'll wear my Tam o' Shanter!

You ask me if I'll tell you why

I cannot do without it?

Because it keeps me cool and dry —

You seem inclined to doubt it?

The reason why? There, pray don't tease!

I'll tell you that instanter.

The reason is —Because I please

To wear my Tam o' Shanter!