A Little, Low Time

When you’re a bit sad and the work goes bad,

     And your thoughts won’t glow like a stream,

And your eyes are blurred and your blood unstirred,

     And you can’t go on with your theme,

Don’t kick your chair with a wild despair,

     Or wail like a lonely loon,

Just think of the joy that comes to the boy,

     And whistle a little low tune.

Don’t whistle so loud you’ll disturb the crowd,

     Or startle the cat from its doze;

Don’t whistle an air that will bring despair

     On the faces of friends or foes.

But when you are glum, and the work won’t come,

     Don’t think from success you’re immune;

Just apprise your brain you’re a boy again,

     And whistle a little low tune.

Nov. 30, 1909