16.

If you want this choice position,
Have a cheery disposition.
Rosy cheeks, no warts,
Play games, all sorts.
You must be kind, you must be witty,
Very sweet and fairly pretty.
Take us on outings, give us treats,
Sing songs, bring sweets.
Never be cross or cruel,
Never feed us castor oil, or gruel.
Love us as a son and daughter,
And never smell of barley water.
If you won’t scold and dominate us,
We will never give you cause to hate us.
We won’t hide your spectacles
So you can’t see,
Put toads in your bed,
And pepper in your tea.
Hurry, nanny, many thanks,
Sincerely, Jane and Michael Banks.