GOOD ON YOU GENTLE BEN

J.C. Hudspith

First tip the hat to Ben’s lost mate
For without her, - he’d never see this date

For the sturdiest state of men is Ben
That despite the miss of Mother-hen
And gazes of white-coated men
He bucks the frowns of brethren
And arms his great son – Ben born again

He lifts the mood with cheer and fodder
Says many thanks to the Heavenly nodder
He does the grind – no moan or sadness
Just right, and true, and never badness

Ben’s standing at the crossroads now
Not his choice, but he’d never bow
Which way to wander, which path to wheel
Which route to embellish with his uplifting spiel?

Wherever he ends – this wise old poet
It will be with a smile and a penchant to know it
A spirit to life, any that’s down
Good humour to turn the surliest frown

So bow Gentle Ben, Do it now while you can
Take the pats on the back – you deserve it man!
Keep spreading the word, you leader of men
From your cousin Chuz
Good on you – Gentle Ben