1954 Practical Bar Management by Eddie Clarke

The Man behind the Bar

He deserves a hero's medal For the many lives he's saved, And upon the roll of honour His name should be engraved. He deserves a lot of credit For the way he stands the strain For the bunk he has to swallow Would drive most of us insane. He must pay the highest licence, He must pay the highest rent. He must settle with the agents Should he never take a cent. And when it comes to paying bills He's Johnny on the spot. He'll pay for what he sells you Whether you pay him or not. And when you walk into his place He will greet you with a smile. Be you workman dressed in overalls Or banker dressed in style. Be you Irish, English, Dutch or French He doesn't give a"ruddy"dot. He'll treat you like a gentleman Until you prove you're not. It matters not what aches and pains. Or the hardships he endures. He speaks not of his troubles. Though you always tell him yours. And if the weather's hot or cold Or turns from rain to snow. It's up to you to tell him so— He's not supposed to know. But sure enough,the day will come, To lay aside his Cocktail Shaker, Hang up his apron and his coat. And go forth to meet his Maker. When St. Peter sees him coming. He'll leave the gates ajar. For he knows he had his hell on earth Had"The Man behind the Bar".

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