I have a poor relation, but
He never troubles me.
He's bowed with care; he wears an air
Of abject misery.
Yet, I am happy to relate,
He never is importunate.
I meet him often in the street;
Sometimes he speaks to me;
I know, indeed, he is in need -
That's very plain to see.
Yet, tho' he is in want, I own
He never asks me for a loan.
His cuffs are frayed around the edge;
His hat's a sight to see;
His coat is torn; his pants are worn,
And baggy at the knee.
Yet, tho' his need is manifest,
He never brings me one request.
I know he often wants for food,
His tradesmen are unpaid,
His life's accurst with one large thirst
That never is allayed.
Yet, ne'er by hint or sign does he
Suggest that it is "up to me."
Is he too proud? Well, truly, no;
To beg he's not ashamed.
Yet, his neglect in that respect,
Is scarcely to be blamed.
In fact he knows full well, you see,
That I am just as poor as he.
First published in The Gadfly, 27 March 1907;
and later in
Backblock Ballads and Other Verses by C.J. Dennis, 1913; and
Backblock Ballads and Later Verses by C.J. Dennis, 1918.
Author reference sites: C.J. Dennis, Austlit, Australian Dictionary of Biography, Australian Poetry Library
See also.
