University of Virginia Library

There dwelt a Farmer in the West,
As we're in story told;
Whose Herds were large, and Flocks the best
That ever lin'd a Fold.
Arm'd with a Staff, his Russet Coat,
And Towser by his side;
Early and late he tun'd his Throat,
And every Wolf defi'd.
Lov'd Towser was his Heart's delight,
In Cringe and Fawning skill'd:
Entrusted with the Flocks by Night,
And Guardian of the Field.
Towser, quoth he, I'm for a Fair,
Be Regent in my Room:
Pray of my tender Flocks take care,
And keep all safe at home.
I know thee Watchful, Just, and Brave,
Right worthy such a place:
No wily Fox shall thee deceive,
Nor Wolf dare show his face.
But ne'er did Wolves a Fold infest,
At Regent Towser's rate:
He din'd and sup'd upon the best,
And frequent Breakfasts eat.
The Farmer oft receiv'd advice,
And laugh'd at the Report:
But coming on him by surprise,
Just found him at the sport.
Ungrateful Beast, quoth he, what means
That bloody Mouth and Paws?
I know the Base, the Treacherons Stains,
Thy breach of Trust and Laws.
The Fruits of my past Love I see,
Roger the Halter bring:
E'en truss him on that Pippin Tree,
And let Friend Towser swing.
I'll spare the famish'd Wolf and Fox,
That ne'er my Bounty knew:
But as the Guardian of my Flocks,
This Neckcloth is your due.

When Ministers their Prince abuse,
And on the Subjects prey:
With antient Monarchs 'twas in use,
To send them Towser's way.