XXIV

Say, lad, have you things to do?

Quick then, while your day's at prime.

Quick, and if‘ tis work for two,

Here am I, man: now's your time.

Send me now, and I shall go;

Call me, I shall hear you call;

Use me ere they lay me low

Where a man's no use at all;

Ere the wholesome flesh decay,

And the willing nerve be numb,

And the lips lack breath to say,

“No, my lad, I cannot come.”