The Three Wishes

Once to a man a goblin came
And said to him, “If you will name
Three wishes, whatsoe’er they be,
They shall be granted instantly.
Think of three things you deem the best,
Express your wish—‘we do the rest.’”
“O Goblin!” cried the man, “indeed
You’re just the kind of a friend I need.
Hunger and Want I’ve known thus far,
I fain would learn what Riches are.”
“Then,” cried the Goblin, “learn it well,
Riches are title deeds to Hell!
Now wish again.”

“Alackaday!”
Exclaimed the man. “I’ve thrown away,
And all for naught, a chance immense;
I only wish I had some sense!”
The Goblin waved his hand—the Dunce
To his surprise was wise for once.
And being wise, he laughed, and said:
“I am a fool—would I were dead!”
* * * * *
“Granted!” the Goblin yell’d “it’s plain
You’ll never be so wise again.”