THE ETERNAL GREETING

What is the welcoming word I hear

When I reach home at the close of day?

“Glad you are with us, daddy, dear?”

Something I'd like to hear you say?

No, it is this, invariably:

“Daddy, what have you got for me?”

“Deep affection,” I might reply;

What would it profit if I did?

I might answer: “The price to buy

Clothes and edibles for you, kid.”

You would repeat, insistently:

“Daddy, what have you got for me?”

Is n't my Self enough for you?

Does n't my Presence satisfy?

No, that spelling would never do;

You want Presents, a new supply,

When you inquire so eagerly:

“Daddy, what have you got for me?”

‘ Twould be much nicer and cheaper, son,

If I were welcome without a toy,

But as I'm not, I must purchase one

And take my reward from your look of joy

When you open the bundle and cry: “O, see!

See what daddy has got for me!”