Select Fruits from the Highlands of Beulah

Chapter 12 

The Pious Tramp 
 

He don't believe in "creed" or "sect,"

But claims to be the "Bride's Elect."

He goes to church to fight and spar

But gives no alms for rent or fire. 

Convention time and on camp-ground

This tramp on "Gratis" list is found:

"I met ill luck," you'll hear him say,

"And where I worked was robbed of pay." 

He don't believe in giving alms,

But says, "trust fully on God's arms."

He borrows here, he borrows there,

And says it came by answered pray'r. 

"I love the truth," you'll hear him say,

But not enough his share to pay.

He comes around for what he'll get,

Ahd till you dine, all day he'll sit.

If boarding him, you get behind,

He with your love some fault will find.

He'll tell the neighbors all abroad