[It is stated that JABEZ S. BALFOUR is living "in a perfect
fairy-land."]
I Dreamt that I dwelt in marble halls,
With orchids on every side,
A very long way from Old Bailey's walls,
Where NEWTON and HOBBS were tried.
I had riches too great to count; could boast
Of JABEZ, an elegant name;
And I also dreamt, which charmed me most,
Argentina loved me the same.
I dreamt that my country let me go,
In an indolent sort of way,
For Scotland Yard did not seem to know
It would "want" me another day.
So they carefully closed the stable-door,
When I'd fled beyond reach of blame;
And I also dreamt, which charmed me more,
Argentina loved me the same.
I dreamt that detectives sought my hand,
But their warrants I could not see.
So their vows my swindler's heart could withstand,
Though they pledged their faith to me.
Buenos Ayres' bold, brazen face,
Never glows with the blush of shame;
Though I should be lynched in a decent place,
Argentina loves me the same.
* * * * *