Just as well! I left out a vital quote mark - I think that was the problem. Let's see anyway. Shazam!:
First off, A poignant chicken link
Oh mother, you've cooked us a succulent feast
for when father comes home from the pub.
Potatoes and veg, and chicken no less,
Which we know is his favourite grub.
The table is laid, with a knife and a fork,
And his favourite bottle of beer.
And Benny and I are so hungry to eat.
But what's that strange sound that I hear?
I hear the sad cry of the chi-i-i-ken,
As it bubbles its troubles away.
I cannot resist such a pitiful squawk -
I'm sticking to carrots today.
That'll do for now. Here goes (but saved this time in case!)
--- Others, with missing close quotes, deleted. ---
---Jeff (PA)---