Bib Ballads — The Eternal Greeting

[Illustration] THE ETERNAL GREETING

What is the welcoming word I hear When I reach home at the close of day?

"Glad you are with us, daddy, dear?"

Something I'd like to hear you say?

No, it is this, invariably: "Daddy, what have you got for me?"

"Deep affection," I might reply;

What would it profit if I did?

I might answer: "The price to buy Clothes and edibles for you, kid."

You would repeat, insistently: "Daddy, what have you got for me?"

Isn't my Self enough for you?

Doesn't my Presence satisfy?

No, that spelling would never do;

You want Presents, a new supply, When you inquire so eagerly: "Daddy, what have you got for me?"

'Twould be much nicer and cheaper, son, If I were welcome without a toy, But as I'm not, I must purchase one And take my reward from your look of joy When you open the bundle and cry: "O, see!

See what daddy has got for me!"

[Illustration] [Illustration] GUESS AGAIN