John Vance Cheney

John Vance Cheney was a distinguished American poet, essayist, and librarian. He is known for his lyrical poetry which reflects the beauty of nature and the simplicity of life. Born on December 29, 1848, in Groveland, New York, Cheney was an influential figure in literary circles during his time. He served as the head of various libraries, enhancing public access to literature and knowledge. Cheney passed away on May 1, 1922, leaving behind a legacy of poetic works that continue to inspire.

December 29, 1848

May 1, 1922

English

John Vance Cheney

Kitchen Clock, The

Knitting is the maid o' the kitchen, Milly,
Doing nothing sits the chore boy, Billy:
"Seconds reckoned,
Seconds reckoned;
Every minute,
Sixty in it.
Milly, Billy,
Billy, Milly,
Tick-tock, tock-tick,
Nick-knock, knock-nick,
Knockety-nick, nickety-knock,"
Goes the kitchen clock.

Closer to the fire is rosy Milly,
Every whit as close and cosy, Billy:
"Time's a-flying,
Worth your trying;
Pretty Milly,
Kiss her, Billy!
Milly, Billy,
Billy, Milly,
Tick-tock, tock-tick,
Now, now, quick, quick!
Knockety-nick, nickety-knock,"
        Goes the kitchen clock.

Something's happened, very red is Milly,
Billy boy is looking very silly;
"Pretty misses,
Plenty kisses;
Make it twenty,
Take a plenty.

John Vance Cheney