ADVICE TO A YOUNG PERSON OF DISTINCTION.

Kumara Times, Issue 2673, 15 April 1885, Page 3

ADVICE TO A YOUNG PERSON OF DISTINCTION.

Mr Gladstone wrote a solemn letter to Prince Edward, giving him hints as to proper methods of ordering a nation's business —See Daily Journals. "You are young," said the sage, "and your heart it is light. I am burdened with years and with cares, But the sovereign people have given me the right To muddle your mother's affairs. "Sol think it my duty to say a few words Of counsel to nourish your youth ; And I spare you a mite from my plenteous hoards Of knowledge, and wisdom, and truth. "Observe what an altitude I have attained ! My vaguest of whimsies are law, A monarch more potent than I never reigned, And I won my position by jaw. "Dear youth, when you come to your glorious throne, Take heed of my words and be wise— Eemember that babble and babble alone, Means greatness in Englishmen's eyes. " Some practical cynics may growl their abuse But nothing will shatter your power; You may tumble the Empire along to the deuce If you only can prate by the hour. "I have plundered and blundered and muddled and messed, But then I have thundered as well, And my tongue makes proud echoes in every breast. Though the kingdom is going to—liquidation. "My pretty young Prince take example by me, And choose the rhetorical road ; If you want to remain at the top of the tree, Let foresight and wisdom be"—reserved for future consideration. [Exit the Sage. The Prince at once sends for the Midlothian speeches, and studies true greatness !] "Vanity Fair."