The Basket-Maker
With supple wands and nimble hands
I labour at my trade;
Some round, some square, I make my ware,
And better can't be made.
My osiers dry I firmly tie
For market, fruit, or clothes;
"Who'll buy! who'll buy! come ladies try
And purchase one of Joe's?"
If once you deal, I'm sure you'll feel
You ve not been doing wrong,
Though small my gains, I take great pains
To make them neat and strong.
From March's Penny Library 1860
