XLIII
We all know the Victorian values
Of economy, hard work and thrift.
Endeavour and achievement were greatly admred
And shirkers were given short shrift.
Victorians were upright and God fearing
So many savage souls they "saved"
Young men were bravely patriotic -
Young girls chastely behaved.
So what did they do with their rebels?
Their young folk who would not conform?
They buried them in large asylums
And forgot that they'd ever been born.
Beneath the Victorian icing
Of piety and charity-giving
Lurked hypocritical double syandards
And some very immoral living.
To Dora and Horace
9.7.1988
