More Observations of a New Boy
by Douglas J "Cardew" Robinson - written when he was actually not a new boy, but in Form IVc, aged about 14, in 1932.
No. 2 - My First Game of Rugger
I've played a game of Rugger,
Oh, it was an awful scream;
Myself and all my playmates,
Went out an' "let off steam."
We had a jolly time all right
(I quite forget who won);
But me and all the other kids
Thought ir was "ripping" fun.
Well, first of all, it took me years
To get my boots well tied;
So I was late and had to go
And change myself ouside.
At last on to the field I dashed,
My playmates cried :Here's James!"
Some workmen who were watching me
Began to call me names.
To my surprise the ball we used
(Excuse my mirth I beg),
The thing with which we had to play
Was shaped just like an egg.
We stood on each side of the line,
And then the fun began.
Some little blighter got the ball,
Towards our line he ran.
I soon stopped him, I pulled his ear,
I had a lovely game,
To a jolly thrillin' game like this,
Why fighting's simply tame!
So all you little new boys,
Play up with all your might,
Just watch IV.c at Rugger
And then you'll play all right.
Hot Breaks (IV.c)
Source: Gaytonian, November 1932
Click for more Cardew Robinson poetry