The Money Tree

Long ago, there used to be
a town without a name,
and in it grew a money tree
which brought it lots of fame.

But the people there weren't happy
in their town that had no name--
When someone asked them
"Where ya from?"
They really couldn't say.

So one day it seemed fitting
that all the folks should meet
to establish, then, a proper name
on which they all agreed.

The Town Hall never was so packed,
the Mayor raised his hand,
the citizens fell silent
and the meeting thus began.

"Quartertown!"  Some called it,
but others disagreed.
"Dollarville's a better name."
"Dollarville, indeed."

"Why would we call it QUARTERtown?
Now there's a silly thing,
everybody knows that quarters
only bud in spring!"

"Why, then, call it DOLLARville?"
The opposition came again,
"The money tree grows not just ones,
but some are fives and tens!"

The day was passing quickly,
people's patience did the same,
if they didn't start agreeing soon
their town would have no name.

It was then the trouble started
and tempers they did flare.
There might have been a riot
had a stranger not been there....

In the back he had been sitting
since the meeting had began
and now that fists were flying
he revealed to them his plan.

"I know I'm not a resident,
but listen close to me.
All of you are fighting now
about the money tree...

So I will solve this problem
for all the town to see.
Everybody come outside,
come quickly, follow me."

The townsfolk gathered once again
in uncertain harmony,
but this time they were all outside
around the money tree.

The stranger stood a moment
with his hands behind his back
and, when the people all were there,
produced a mighty axe.

"This tree is what's preventing you
from naming this old town,
so I'm taking it upon myself
to cut the problem down.

And worry not, good patrons,
of this tree I will dispose.
No one need come with me,
I prefer to work alone..."

How the townsfolk cheered the man
whose selfless help they'd found!
The tree upon his shoulder blades,
he took it from the town.

To this day still the people wait
should the stranger come around
to share with him the fact they chose
the name of Swindletown.