Votes

Mr. Lawson asks everyone to aid in preventing the drain of population from the country centres.

Are you earnest, Mr. Lawson? Do
you mean
That everyone must help in this
good cause—
Ev'n the gentle politician,
Who, while holding his position,
For the good of bloated cities
passes laws?

Just remember, Mr. Lawson, it is
votes
That hold the politician where he
is.
And 'tis generally reckoned,
When position once has beckoned,
That this coddling of the country
is not "biz."

ARE you earnest, Mr. Lawson? If
you are,
There is something of the states-
man in your stand.
If you are enthusiastic,
And evolve some measure drastic,
You will, some day, win the praises
of your land.

They will tell you, Mr. Lawson, in the
House,
That to push the country interests
does not pay;
But, if you're intent on trying,
You will win a name undying:
Though, we fear, not, Mr. Lawson,
in your day.

Still, be earnest, Mr. Lawson, and
good luck!
Brave words will count for nothing
lest you act.
Good Australians stand behind
you;
And, one day, great fame will find
you
As the man who held what politi-
cians lacked.