EQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY

Two youths there were in days of yore

Called Jones and Robinson.

Jones had abilities galore,

While Robinson had none.

They met with corresponding fates:

And Jones, that genius proud,

Obtained in time a First in Greats:

While Robinson was ploughed.

Jones hoped that mental gifts like his

Might gain a Fellowship:

But ah! full many a slip there is

Between the cup and lip:

“You have a brain,” the College said,

“Which unassisted soars:

’ Tis not for Colleges to aid

Abilities like yours!

Go — wealth awaits your gathering hand,

And empires crave your rule!

But Fellowships like ours are planned

To help the helpless fool.”

He tried the Press: he tried the Bar:

But still the Bar and Press

Said, “Not for him our openings are

Whose gifts ensure success:

Such posts are meant (’ tis justice plain )

For those unhappy chaps

( Like Robinson ) whom lack of brain

Unfairly handicaps!”

And now — yet check the rising tear:

It seems that long ago

Those Founders whom we all revere

Meant it to happen so —

Some lack of necessary food,

All in a garret lone,

Has ended Jones. I thought it would.

But Robinson’ s a DON.