A Ballad Of Burial

(“Saint @Proxed's ever was the Church for peace”)

If down here I chance to die, Solemnly I beg you take All that is left of “I” To the Hills for old sake's sake, Pack me very thoroughly In the ice that used to slake Pegs I drank when I was dry-- This observe for old sake's sake.

To the railway station hie, There a single ticket take For Umballa--goods-train--I Shall not mind delay or shake.

I shall rest contentedly Spite of clamor coolies make; Thus in state and dignity Send me up for old sake's sake.

Next the sleepy Babu wake, Book a Kalka van “for four.” Few, I think, will care to make Journeys with me any more As they used to do of yore.

I shall need a “special” break-- Thing I never took before-- Get me one for old sake's sake.

After that--arrangements make.

No hotel will take me in, And a bullock's back would break 'Neath the teak and leaden skin Tonga ropes are frail and thin, Or, did I a back-seat take, In a tonga I might spin,-- Do your best for old sake's sake.

After that--your work is done.

Recollect a Padre must Mourn the dear departed one-- Throw the ashes and the dust.

Don't go down at once. I trust You will find excuse to “snake Three days' casual on the bust.” Get your fun for old sake's sake.

I could never stand the Plains. Think of blazing June and May Think of those September rains Yearly till the Judgment Day! I should never rest in peace, I should sweat and lie awake.

Rail me then, on my decease, To the Hills for old sake's sake.