THE HAPPY SLOW THINKER

Full many a time a thought has come

That had a bitter meaning in it.

And in the conversation's hum

I lost it ere I could begin it.

I've had it on my tongue to spring

Some poisoned quip that I thought clever;

Then something happened and the sting

Unuttered went, and died forever.

A lot of bitter thoughts I've had

To silence fellows and to flay‘ em,

But next day always I've been glad

I was n't quick enough to say‘ em.