Just Folks

Another Mouth to Feed

          We've got another mouth to feed,
            From out our little store;
          To satisfy another's need
            Is now my daily chore.
          A growing family is ours,
            Beyond the slightest doubt;
          It takes all my financial powers
            To keep them looking stout.
          With us another makes his bow
            To breakfast, dine and sup;
          Our little circle's larger now,
            For Buddy's got a pup.

          If I am frayed about the heels
            And both my elbows shine
          And if my overcoat reveals
            The poverty that's mine,
          'Tis not because I squander gold
            In folly's reckless way;
          The cost of foodstuffs, be it told,
            Takes all my weekly pay.
          'Tis putting food on empty plates
            That eats my wages up;
          And now another mouth awaits,
            For Buddy's got a pup.

          And yet I gladly stand the strain,
            And count the task worth while,
          Nor will I dismally complain
            While Buddy wears a smile.
          What's one mouth more at any board
            Though costly be the fare?
          The poorest of us can afford
            His frugal meal to share.
          And so bring on the extra plate,
            He will not need a cup,
          And gladly will I pay the freight
            Now Buddy's got a pup.