My dad, who is almost 90, learned this poem before he entered 1st grade. This is his version: LLittle Joey, by the doorstep Of a little cabin, lay Pouring gravel through his fingers, And his mammy heard him say, "Ain't nobody, cain't nobody Love a little colored boy don't guess. Teacher raps me, mammy slaps me And I longs for love I 'fess. I just wish when mammy calls me She'd say 'Come here Honey Lamb,' Stead of sayin', 'Get here Joey, Or I shall give you a slam!' If I'd die folks 'ould miss me, Lay some flowers 'round my head; Mammy 'ould cry and maybe kiss me. Yes, I mostly wish I's dead." Mammy smiled, while love and pity Struggled with a touch of pride; Then she hastened to the window And in a loving tone she cried, "Come in Honey Lamb, You's getting all tanned up, And the grand folks passing by Will think you's Irish, like as not."
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