Page:A book of nursery songs and rhymes (1895).pdf/26

A LYING TALE He challenged me to jump a brook, He challenged me to run; I beat the pride out of his hide, And killed him when I'd done.

The people all admiring stood, To see me, not afraid. They gave to me a salver bright, A hundred ton it weighed. I made myself a little box, 'Twas but three acres square, I filled it up unto the top With my bright silver ware.

When I did go from London town, I rode upon an ox, In by my thigh, in pocket I Did put my little box. And when I reached the Western shore, They kicked me out of door, They would not trust me for a pint, Because I looked so poor.

I bought myself a flock of sheep, I thought they all were wethers. And some of them they gave me lambs And some gave only feathers. Methinks they were the bravest sheep To give such good increase, I cut their wool when the moon was full, And I had two lambs apiece.