A Lazy Man’s Bicycle

I wish I had a bicycle,

     That never could upset;

One that would steer and push itself

     Right through the sand and wet.

I’d want a dozen wheels beneath,

     Four in a row, and tires

That never could be punctured with

     The sharpest nails and wires.

I wish I had a bicycle,

     E’er waiting at the door;

And then a man to rub it up

     Whene’er my spin was o’er.

And if I had these little things,

     And many more beside,

And time, and inclination, why,

     I guess I’d like to ride.

April 13, 1896

Pub. in Conn.

Valley Advertiser,

Sep. 18, ‘96