Classic Poem

(More Truth than Poetry)

We send a man to Congress;
And, plain as words can say,
We tell him, " Serve the party:
Get John and Mick a clerkship,
Raise money for elections,
Serve all things but the country,
And you'll in Congress stay . "

" But if, " our deeds are saying, —
And is it strange men hear? —
" You're faithful to your duty,
If you neglect the party,
If you your country care for,
And try to be a statesman ,
You'll stay at home next year. "

'Tis this that needs reforming!
Let old experience speak:
If you would have men faithful,
It's hardly safe to pay them
With bribes for your betrayal.
They your example follow,
When interest they seek.

Put not plain human nature
To too severe a test.
You all are daily seeking
For profit and for honor.
A virtue that you scout at
Demand not of your neighbor, —
Make duty interest.