A CRAFTSMAN'S AMBITION by BLISS CARMAN

Of craftsmen I would rather be
A silversmith, it seems to me,
And make those platters round and great
That butlers bear through halls of state
Mid pomp of bugles - born on high
With suckling pigs and peacock pie.

And I would fashion for my trade
Such pieces as Cellini made -
Fair noble plates with hunting scenes
Of palfreys and slim-waisted queens,
And lordly tankards fit for kings,
And cups and candlesticks and things.

And articles of vanity
For dainty young Hermione
To use in powdering her nose
At matinees and other shows.
Quite needful, too, when Mrs. Gay
Goes forth accoutred for the fray.
And I would have among my works
Such common things as knives and forks,
Of rare and classical design,
to give folk pleasure when they dine.

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