The Poetry Corner

A Ballad Of Refreshment

By Robert Fuller Murray

The lady stood at the station bar, (Three currants in a bun) And oh she was proud, as ladies are. (And the bun was baked a week ago.) For a weekly wage she was standing there, (Three currants in a bun) With a prominent bust and light gold hair. (And the bun was baked a week ago.) The express came in at half-past two, (Three currants in a bun) And there lighted a man in the navy blue. (And the bun was baked a week ago.) A stout sea-captain he was, I ween. (Three currants in a bun) Much travel had made him very keen. (And the bun was baked a week ago.) A sober man and steady was he. (Three currants in a bun) He called not for brandy, but called for tea. (And the bun was baked a week ago.) 'Now something to eat, for the train is late.' (Three currants in a bun) She brought him a bun on a greasy plate. (And the bun was baked a week ago.) He left the bun, and he left the tea, (Three currants in a bun) She charged him a shilling and let him be, And the train went on at a quarter to three. (And the bun is old and weary.)