 | The Poems of John Clare |  |
369
TIT FOR TAT
The old hens cackle and begin the day,And maidens run and drive the dogs away.
The laughing maiden hurries in the house
And twirls the mop the passing clown to souse,
Who runs in turn and kicks the bucket down
And splashes muddy water on her gown.
Another maid with laughter in her eye
Splashes him from the wash-tub passing by:
She laughs at threats and pays him no regard;
Her face protects her from an angry word;
But holds her apron up to stop the blow
When angry Hodge the turnip dares to throw.
The other only claims a kiss for pay;
She knows the claim and seldom runs away.
| The Poems of John Clare | |