THE SONG OF THE NAVAL SECRETARY BIRD

Jenny hoped when she mated with Robin

Affection they never would lack'

But now she is "sighin' and Bobbin',"

Her hopes were destroyed by a W.A.A.C.

Not a blow, but a bird of ill omen,

Khaki coloured, who once on a day

Whistled Robin (whose proper cognomen

Is Redbreast) her Robin away.

"Just whistle," said he, "then together,

Down primrose path winging our way,

Our love, given beautiful weather,

Will bloom like the flowers in May."

'Tis a way that they have in the Army,

Whose Redbreasts so gallant and gay,

The air being propitious and balmy,

With other bird's birds fly away.

Dry your eyes, Jenny Wren, I've a notion

From those who're as staunch as they're true,

And something to do with the ocean

The Blue Bird is waiting for you.

He flew o'er the ocean to seek you,

And lighted on Britain's fair shore,

On wings of the morning he's greet you,

And you shall be happy once more.

Your plumage will gain by reflection

A tinge of cerulean blue,

When mutual regard and affection

 Exist 'twixt the Blue Bird and you.

So Jenny, dear, preen your fine feathers,

And gladden his heart with a song,

You'll find him at home in all weathers,

When you to the Blue Bird belong.

With those who like you may be willing

Single hearted to join in the fray,

And take our Most Gracious King's Shilling,

A Blue Bird is coming to stay.

For "Blue Bird" please read the tradition

And esprit de corps of our Fleet;

Then breathe out its prayer on commission,

"May sweethearts and wives never meet."

C.G.

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