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He gave him a bond, having taken the same,Away to the bride with the writing he came,And told her the story of what he had done,It made the whole family laugh at the fun.
Next morning he dress'd himself in his best clothes,With his charming bride like a beatiful rose,A walk to their father's house straight they did take,And happ'ned to meet him just entering the gate.
They fell on their knees and his blessing did crave,The which he presently unto them gave,Then kissing his daughter, he turn'd to his son,Saying, John you have funn'd me as sure as gun.
They up from their knees, and told him the truth,He said, as you're both in the bloom of your youth,I give you my blessing, and for your policy,Two thousand good pounds you shall have when I die.
You lovers of England whoever you be,That read these few verses take council of me,Don't matter love's crosses tho' thick they fall,One night's lodging will make amends for all.
The LADS of the VILLAGE
While the lads of the village shall merrily, ah!Sound the tabor, I'll hand thee along,And say unto thee, that verily, ah!thou and I will be first in the throng.While &c.
Just then when the swain who last year won the dower,with his mates shall the sport have begun; Then the gay voice of gladness resounds from each bower,and thou long'st in thine heart to make one.
Those joys that are harmless, what mortal can blame'tis my maxim that youth should be free,And to prove that my words & my deeds are the same,believe me, you'll presently see. While the lads, &c.
