Part 15 (1/2)

But Louis frothed at mouth with rage, Like one that was insane, And said he'd make Bill promise him He'd not offend again.

”I'd promise no such thing,” says Mark, ”For that would hurt your pride, Sing on and read your testament, Dame Europe's on your side.”

”If I'd to promise aught like that, 'Twould be against my mind; So take it right or take it wrong, I'll promise naught o' t'kind.”

”Then I shall take and wallop thee Unless thou cuts thy stick; And drive thee to thy fatherland Before another week.”

”Come on,” cried Sanctimonius, And sending out his arm He caught poor Louis on the nose, Then sung another psalm.

But Louis soon was on his pins, And used his fists a bit, But he was fairly out of breath, And seldom ever hit.

And at the end of round the first, He got it fearful hot, This was his baptism of fire If we mistake it not.

So Willie sent a letter home To mother old Augusta, Telling her he'd thrashed poor Loo, And given him such a duster.

”What wonderful events,” says he, ”Has heaven brought about, I'll fight the greatest pugilist That ever was brought out.

And if by divine Providence I get safe through this row, Then I will sing 'My G.o.d, the spring From whom all blessings flow.'”

Meanwhile the other Monitors, Were standing looking on, But none of them dare speak a word, But all stared straight at John.

”Ought not I to interfere?”

Says Johnny to the rest; But he was told by every one Neutrality was best.

”Neutral,” growl'd John, ”I hate the word, 'Tis poison to my ear; It's another word for cowardice, And makes me fit to swear.

”At any rate I can do this, My mind I will not mask, I'll give poor Loo a little drop Out of my brandy flask.

”And give it up, poor Loo, my lad, You might as well give in, You know that I have got no power; Besides, you did begin.”

Then Louis rose, and looked at John, And spoke of days gone by When he would not have seen his friend Have blackened Johnny's eye.

”And as for giving in, friend John, I'll do nothing of the sort; Do you think I'll be a laughing-stock For everybody's sport.”

This conversation that took place Made pious Willie grin, And tell John Bull to hold his noise, 'Twas nought to do with him.

These words to John did make him stare, And finding to his shame, That those were worse who did look on, Than those who played the game.

Now Mrs. Europe knew the facts Which had been going on, And with her usual dignity, These words addressed to John:

”Now, Mr. Bull, pray answer me,- Why are you gaping here?

You are my famous deputy, Then why not interfere?”

”Why,” answered John, and made a bow, But yet was very shy, ”I was told to be a neutral, ma'am, And that's the reason why.”

”That's just what you should not have done, Being in authority; Did I not place you in that bunk To think and act for me?

”Why any baby in the house Could not have done much worse, But I fancy you've been holding back To save your private purse.