An Israelite meshed in a 'Nihilist plot
Is a pitiful picture. Ungrateful indeed
Is the poor Russian Jew, not content with _his_ lot--
As a slave to the Slav. But expel the whole breed?
Apply that same rule to your subjects all round,
And one fancies you'll find it too sweeping by far.
The vast realm of Muscovy then might be found
A wilderness--save for the White-livered CZAR.
The pick of your people, the best of your blood,
Your purest of women, your bravest of men,
O CZAR, have they not, in despair's dusky mood,
Turned Nihilist, plotted, been banished? What then?
Best banish _them all_, as you'd banish the Jew;
'Twill sweep your dominions more clear than red war.
Picture Russia a waste with one resident--you,
Perched high--and alone--as the White-livered CZAR!
Maybe they malign you. It _cannot_ be sooth
That you talk like an angry illogical girl.
Yes, banish the Hebrews, as wholly as ruth.
Be cold in your wrath as the Neva's chill swirl,
Snub friendly remonstrance, blunt satire's keen blade.
With a blot of black ink! Will it carry you far?
A CAESAR must not be a fool or afraid;
There's no place in earth's round for a White-livered CZAR!
* * * * *
SAD FINISH.--We see advertised, "_George Meredith, A Study_.
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