Classic Poem

I really take it very kind,
This visit, Mrs. Skinner!
I have not seen you such an age--
(The wretch has come to dinner!)

"Your daughters, too, what loves of girls--
What heads for painters' easels!
Come here and kiss the infant, dears,--
(And give it p'rhaps the measles!)

"Your charming boys I see are home
From Reverend Mr. Russel's;
'Twas very kind to bring them both,--
(What boots for my new Brussels!)

"What! little Clara left at home?
Well now I call that shabby:
I should have lov'd to kiss her so,--
(A flabby, dabby, babby!)

"And Mr. S., I hope he's well,
Ah! though he lives so handy,
He never now drops in to sup,--
(The better for our brandy!)

"Come, take a seat--I long to hear
About Matilda's marriage;
You're come, of course, to spend the day!--
(Thank Heav'n, I hear the carriage!)

"What! must you go? next time I hope
You'll give me longer measure;
Nay--I shall see you down the stairs--
(With most uncommon pleasure!)

"Good-bye! good-bye! remember all
Next time you'll take your dinners!
(Now, David, mind I'm not at home
In future to the Skinners!)'