Books: Billy

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Billy, in one of his nice new sashes, Fell in the fire and was burnt to ashes, Now, although the room grows chilly, I haven't the heart to poke poor Billy.

Ever since "Col. D. Streamer" (Harry Graham) wrote this callous little quatrain (Ruthless Rhymes for Heartless Homes') in 1901, British poetasters have amused themselves by writing variations on the theme. Recently London's weekly Time & Tide offered prizes for the best wartime ruthless rhyme. Three of the six prizewinners :

Willie in his roguish way Tipped Grandpa on the fire one day. Mother said "My dear that's cruel! But of course it does save fuel—"

Tommy for his evening game Set his sister's hair aflame; Wardens shouted at the sight "Wretched Boy—PUT OUT THAT LIGHT !"

Dad, a Home Guard, when in liquor, Missed his target—killed the Vicar; With more practice, like as not, Dad may be a better shot.