Manners

My grandfather said to me
As we sat on the wagon seat
"Be sure to remember to always
Speak to everyone you meet."

We met a stranger on foot
My grandfather's whip tapped his hat
"Good day, sir. Good day. A fine day."
And I said it and bowed where I sat

Then we overtook a boy we knew
With his big pet crow on his shoulder
"Always offer everyone a ride;
Don't forget that when you get older,"

My grandfather said. So Willy
Climbed up with us, but the crow
Gave a "Caw!" and flew off. I was worried
How would he know where to go?

But he flew a little way at a time
From fence post to fence post, ahead;
And when Willy whistled he answered
"A fine bird," my grandfather said

"and he's well brought up. See, he answers
Nicely when he's spoken to
Man or beast, that's good manners
Be sure that you both always do."

When automobiles went by
The dust hid the people's faces
But we shouted "Good day! Good day!
Fine day!" at the top of our voices

When we came to Hustler Hill
He said that the mare was tired
So we all got down and walked
As our good manners required