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Before you go to sleep tonight,

Tucked in cosy, warm and tight,

Some safety steps you need to take.

It won’t take long, sleep can wait.

We must make sure that you’re secure.

Have you locked the gate and doors?

Have you checked the windows too?

Even the small one in the loo?

What about the basement down below?

And the garage where all the tools are stowed?

And that faulty latch on the verandah door?

Are you safe inside? Are you sure?

That shadow outside your window there,

Is it a panther, wolf or grizzly bear?

So many things that lurk at night,

Just waiting to deliver a terrible fright.

What was that noise, that awful bump?

Like an axe into an old tree stump?

Or was it the thud of a wooden leg?

Was it outside or right under your bed?

But wait!

Why, my child, you look pale with worry!

It must have been your father’s curry.

He never was a very good cook

And now you have this peakish look.

Lucky I’m here to put you at ease

To keep you calm and soothe your fears

To banish frightening thoughts you keep,

It’s important you get a good night’s sleep.

Oh my goodness, look at the time!

Having this chat has been sublime.

But leave, I must – it’s very late.

Toodle-loo, sweet dreams for you await!