Gateway to the Classics: A Moral Alphabet by Hilaire Belloc
 
A Moral Alphabet by  Hilaire Belloc

G For Gnu

G stands for gnu,

whose weapons of Defence

Are long, sharp, curling Horns, and Common-sense.

To these he adds a Name so short and strong,

That even Hardy Boers pronounce it wrong.


[Illustration]

How often on a bright Autumnal day

The Pious people of Pretoria say,

"Come, let us hunt the—" Then no more is heard

But Sounds of Strong Men struggling with a word.

Meanwhile, the distant Gnu with grateful eyes

Observes his opportunity, and flies.

Moral

Child, if you have a rummy kind of name,

Remember to be thankful for the same.


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