The Imperfect Economist

“I wear my very oldest suits, I go about in shocking boots, And (bar potatoes) feed on roots, And various cereal substitutes For wheat, and non-imported fruits. No meat my table now pollutes, But, though I spare warm-blooded brutes, I sometimes sup on frogs and newts.

I often spend laborious days Supported by a little maize; And rice prepared in divers ways My appetite at luncheon stays. From sugar I avert my gaze; Unsweetened tea my thirst allays; I never go to any plays Or smoke expensive Henry Clays.”

Our excellent Economist His pet extravagance forgets, Which rather spoils his little list— His fifty daily cigarettes.