The Poetry Corner

Reasonable Interest

By Ellis Parker Butler

I want to know how Bernard Shaw Likes beefsteak, fairly done, or raw? I want to know what kinds of shoes M. Maeterlinck and Howells use. I have great curiosity Regarding George Ades new boot tree. Has Carolyn Wells of late employed Hairpins of wire or celluliod? What kind of soap does London like? Does Robert Chambers ever hike? Or did he ever? Or, if not, Does he like cabbage, cheese, or what? I want to know the size of gloves Oppenheim wears, and if he loves Olives, and how his clothes are made. What does he eat? How is he paid? All sorts of things I want to learn, That are not of the least concern To any one. For, Oh! and Oh! I want to know! I WANT TO KNOW! I want to know, and know I will, The printing press is never still, For me it prints such facts as these! I am the Public, if you please!