Classic Poem

O, be not too hasty, my dearest,
That cloth o'er the flagon to draw,
But pour in the goblet that's nearest
A swig for your sister-in-law.
I know that I've taken already
As much as beginner should stand;
But soda at home will soon steady
The tremulous nerves of my hand.

" Pour out for yourself, my dear Bella,
A couple of fingers, or so;
And don't you be getting too " meller,"
If home you have early to go.
Already the tint of our noses
The pace is betraying, my dear;
And, after we've taken our doses,
Suppose we swear off, for a year. "