Page:Merry piper, or, The popish fryar & boy.pdf/4

 After another year he may,
 * far greater wages get.

We have a lusty lad you know,
 * who does our cattle keep,

The field be rambles too and fro,
 * then lies him down to sleep:

But there he shall no longer roam,
 * good wife, as God's my shield;

I'll send him other work at home,
 * and Jack shall trudge the field.

I give consent, she reply'd,
 * and if the fame you'll do,

Against his going I'll provide,
 * a bag and bottle too;

For she was highly pleas'd at this
 * joy fat on her brow;

Thought she I can my friar kiss,
 * while Jack's among the cows.

The 'Squire to his son did call,
 * and told him his intent;

He cry'd, with all my heart, I shall,
 * with joy and merriment.

For he was dutiful indeed.
 * Right willing to obey;

Next morning he arose with speed,
 * just by the break of day.

Thinking no living creature wrong,
 * to th' field he did repair,

Sitting and whistling all along,
 * heigh ho, away the mare,

past away the morning soon,
 * all in a pleasant mood;

And then lie sat himself down at noon,
 * to eat his homely food.

Then looking on his slender store,
 * of barley, bread, and meat

And finding that it was but poor,
 * he had no mind to eat.