Tom the Diddler

In Howe’s by day, Mc Cann’s by night,
Sometimes sober, most times tight,
The Diddler’s talk keeps company bright,
Here’s a toast to Tom.

Ruddy cheeks and curling hair,
Ancient cap and figure spare,
Gipsy-like without a care,
Here’s a toast to Tom.

He once appeared upon the screen,
In Saints and Sinners he was seen,
He showed no nerves, was quite serene,
Here’s a toast to Tom.

He says he comes from Crossmaglen,
I’m sure he’s ‘mongst the honest men,
We may not see his likes again
Here’s a toast to Tom.

A mountain cottage shelters him,
He comes and goes at his own whim,
We hope his star may not soon dim,
Here’s a toast to Tom.