Page:Jovial songster.pdf/5



5

Hodge said 'twas vartue over much : For says sly old Hodge, says he, Great talkers do the least, d'ye see.

Curtis said, if men were rude, She'd scratch their eyes out, tear their hair; Cried Hodge, "I believe thou'rt wondrous good,                  However, let us nothing swear." For says, &c.

One night she dream't a drunken fool Be rude with her in spite would fain; She makes no more, but with join-stool, Falls on her husband might and main. Still says, &c.

By that time she had broke his nose, Hodge made shift to wake his wife: "Dear Hodge," said she, "judge by these blows,                  I prize my vartue as my life." Still says, &c.

I dreamt a rude man on me fell; However I his project marrd:"--                  “Dear wife, cried I 'tis mighty well,                   But next time don't hit quite so hard." For says, &c.

At break of day Hodge cross'd a stile, Near to a field of new-mown hay, And saw and curs'd his stars the while, Curtis and Numps in am'rous play. "Was'nt I right?" says Hodge says he; "Great talkers do the least, d'ye see."