Classic Poem

He talked of Africa,
That fat and easy man.
I'd but to say a word,
And straight the tales began.

And when I'd wish to read,
That man would not disclose
A thought of harm, but sleep;
Hard-breathing through his nose.

Then when I'd wish to hear
More tales of Africa,
'Twas but to wake him up,
And but a word to say

To press the button, and
Keep quiet; nothing more;
For tales of stretching veldt,
Kaffir and sullen Boer.

O what a lovely friend!
O quiet easy life!
I wonder if his sister
Would care to be my wife. . . .