]
* * * * *
IF I HAD A THOUSAND A-YEAR.
A BACHELOR'S LYRIC.
If I had a thousand a-year,
(How my heart at the bright vision glows!)
I should never be crusty or queer,
But all would be _couleur de rose_.
I'd pay all my debts, though _outre_,
And of duns and embarrassments clear,
Life would pass like a bright summer day,
If I had a thousand a-year.
I'd have such a spicy turn-out,
And a horse of such mettle and breed--
Whose points not a jockey should doubt,
When I put him at top of his speed.
On the foot-board, behind me to swing,
A tiger so small should appear,
All the nobs should protest "'twas the thing!"
If I had a thousand a-year.
A villa I'd have near the Park,
From Town just an appetite-ride;
With fairy-like grounds, and a bark
O'er its miniature waters to glide.
There oft, 'neath the pale twilight star,
Or the moonlight unruffled and clear,
My meerschaum I'd smoke, or cigar,
If I had a thousand a-year.
I'd have pictures and statues, with taste--
Such as ladies unblushing might view--
In my drawing and dining-rooms placed,
With many a gem of virtu.
My study should be an affair
The heart of a book-worm to cheer--
All compact, with its easy spring chair,
If I had a thousand a-year.
A cellar I'd have quite complete
With wines, so _recherche_, well stored;
And jovial guests often should meet
Round my social and well-garnish'd board.
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