Page:Young Gregor's ghost (NLS104184752).pdf/4

4 The way they would manage and make matters go,

Her father did follow; and heard them also,

He stepped in softly, stood over the cave,

Hearing the whole counsel, how they should behave.

At last he advanced, cried, Gregor, what now,

Is this the reward from such an orphan as you?

Know I've maintain'd you since seven years old,

And now your intentions they seem very bold.

Then Gregor ask'd pardon, and this he did say,

Sir, I'm at your disposal, then do as you may;

The old man in a passion there chiding did stand,

Till Katy took courage and took speech in hand.

What mean you, dear father, on us for to frown,

Was the man a beggar, I'm sure he's our own,

He's of our own kindred, our flesh and our blood,

And you very well know his behaviour is good.

'Tis him that I choose for my husband and shall,

Go give all your riches to whom that you will,

Do not think I'm a horse or a hog to be sold

Away to some numskull that has nothing but gold.

The father in a rage to her mother did go,

And told the proceedings with sorrow and woe,

Yet seem'd as his anger that night had been gone,

Lest that young Gregor' the place should abscon.

But he sent a message into Inverness,

Which brought out a party young Gregor to press,

And for to make ready no time gave, we hear,

He asked but one favour, a word of his dear;

Which being deny'd, the old man, in a frown,

Said, soldiers can have sweethearts in every town,

At this the young lady cried out bitterly,

May the Heavens requite you for your cruelty.

Young Gregor took courage, and marched away;

When his captain view'd him he this to him did say,