Union Poem 1861--We, and Our “knitting-work.”

Cincinnati, Daily Press, (Ohio) Wednesday, December 11, 1861 (Library of Congress)

(From the New York Evening Post.)

We, and Our “knitting-work.”

By Laura Elmer.

Nimbly forward, knitting-pins,

When ye lag kind conscience dins;

Round and round—hast to the hell— (ROFLMAO- I rechecked and "hell" is a period typo...should have been "heel")

Click and clatter, glittering steel.

First the heel, and then the toe,

Shining bodkins quickly go.

O, ye heed not, but we heed

All the good that’s in your speed.

Loop the pliant thread of wool,

In and out, each needleful;

“Slip-and-bind” the flexile string,

Till “toe’d-off”’s the elastic thing.

So its mate—then click along,

Till we have a knitted throng;

“Pillow-case-ful” of the hose,

Is the rule, each woman knows.

Off now—toward your mission flit—

“Tis for loyal feet ye’re knit;

Keep them snug and warm each day—

We’ve no fear they’ll run away.

Stay, there’s one thing—just suppose

Rebels steal ye, fleecy hose!

Dare not shield their toes from damps—

‘Flame their soles, and coax the cramps.

Quick they’ll swear—but be sure,

‘Legiance’tisn’t—‘two’n’t endure!

Snap your thread and gape in holes—

Ho! their corns and swell their soles!

Dare not give the rebels aid—

For their comfort ye’re not made:

Let all traitors barefoot flee—

Be unto them P.P.C.