Verse and Reverse (1921)/The Sandman

Do you hear the Sandman's footstep
Outside the nursery door?
Do you see his shadow creeping
Along the nursery floor?
Do you think that he would notice
A pair of sparkling eyes
If he came along some evening
And took us by surprise?

And if he did, why bless us,
Do you think he'd let them stay
A-sparkling and a-twinkling
In that very wakeful way?
No, so quick you couldn't see him
He would dive into his pouch,
And before you even knew it
You'd be dreaming on the couch

So when next you hear his footsteps
Or you guess that he is near,
Just as quick as you are able
Hop right into bed, my dear;
For one never knows the moment
That he'll catch you unawares,
And it is so hard, when sleepy,
To go climbing up the stairs.