The Song of the "No-See-Ums ! 



Y 



OU don't hear no warning hum 



As they come. 

 They don't sound no fife and drum, 



No, by gum! 



They don't shriek like shot or shell, 

 But they're worse than shrapenel; 

 And they sure do ring the bell 

 "No-See-Ums." 



They never had their cussed pictures made; 



I'm afraid 

 There ain't enough o' money to be paid 



Or be laid, 



For to get their pictures took 

 To adorn some nature book; 

 If they is I want a look 



At 'em caged. 



But I know from year to year 



It appears; 

 I have a bunch of finest souvenirs 



Fine and clear. 



They sure have got some prong, 

 And they like to use it strong; 

 If you slap where they belong; 



They ain't there. 



And when upon the resurrection day, 



Bright and gay, 

 If you and me be shunted either way, 



Why, then say 



Up above we'll see 'em slink 

 And below the smoke and stink 

 It will make 'em hump 'i jink 



So hurray! -C. A. Laflin. 



17 



