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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


RUDENESS by ELIZABETH TURNER (1755-1846)

First Line: JAMES WENT TO THE DOOR OF THE KITCHEN AND SAID
Last Line: WERE LEARN'D TO BE US'D IN THE PARLOUR ALONE!
Subject(s): BOYS; RUDENESS; BAD MANNERS;

JAMES went to the door of the kitchen and said,
"Cook, give me this moment some honey and bread;
Then fetch me a glass or a cup of good beer,
Why, cook, you don't stir, and I'm sure you must hear!"

"Indeed, Master James," was the cook's right reply,
"To answer such language I feel rather shy,
I hear you quite plainly, but wait till you choose
To civilly ask, when I shall not refuse."

What pity young boys should indulge in this way,
Whilst knowing so well what is proper to say;
As if civil words, in a well-manner'd tone,
Were learn'd to be us'd in the parlour alone!



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