We were firm friends in years gone by,
Were classmates at the school,
And kept each other company,
Against the master's rule.
For he was righteous and he taught:
"No boys with girls shall play!"
I wonder if he really thought
They'd lead us all astray.
"No messages shall pass between
The scholars in this school!
And, woe to him who first is seen
To violate this rule!"
By fear and awe were all oppressed
And knew not what to do:
But I, more bold than all the rest,
Sent Kate my billets-doux.
She answered them, and sweeter notes
A lover never read;
I've often wondered since that time
They never turned my head.
And when our daily tasks were o'er,
Away from school we ran
To meet within some leafy dell
And both our futures plan.
But now she meets me with reserve,
No welcome, as of yore;
No parting with a warm embrace,
No kisses at the door.
Another fellow charms her now;
She's children pert and tripper
And, many a time, upon her knee,
She spanks them with her slipper.