English poem
Under the Union Jack
by Herbert Beeman (1858–1944)
Our Boss gave us a holiday On Friday of last week, To go to the Canadian Club To hear a Premier speak.
Oh, no! Not "Honest John," this time, With Freight Rates on the run, But one who's nicknamed "Square Deal Bill," In Tuesday morning's Sun.
Massey, P. C. and L. L. D., New Zealand's Premier, Sans fear and sans reproach, the faith Within him, did declare.
"We once were known as Colonies, Now Nations, vigorous, young. Free to direct our own affairs, To our own thoughts give tongue.
"Free, but together firmly held By sentiment, not force, Under one King, beneath one Flag, Aye! Freedom's truest source.
"Free Trade is merely free imports, And duty paid abroad, It seems to me, but some are not Exactly in accord."
(To a would-be "Guardian" of his speech He made some reference; I must admit for that advice He showed no "preference.")
"Our Tropic and our Temperate zones All that we need contain." His plea for Empire Trade recalled To me an old refrain.
The song—"Under the Bamboo Tree"— A darkey to his dame: "You like-a me, I like a-you. We like-a both the same."