The three tours of Doctor Syntax In search of 1. The picturesque, 2. Of consolation, 3. Of a wife. The text complete. [By William Combe] With four illustrations |
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![]() | The three tours of Doctor Syntax | ![]() |
“Good Rev'rend Sir,
Our Vicar's dead And I have nam'd you in his stead.I often wish'd his neck he'd break, Or tumble drunk into the Lake;
So, you must know the poaching hound
Fulfill'd one wish—for he is drown'd.
Unfit for preaching or for praying, His merit lay in cudgel-playing:
And he preferr'd to saying prayers, The laying springes for the hares.
“You will perceive I keep my word,
And to this Church you're now preferr'd:
By ev'ry legal act and deed, To Parson Hairbrain you succeed:
The papers which you now receive, A right and full possession give.
You, Sir, may make the living clear
Above three hundred pounds a year;
And if you will but condescend To my son's learning to attend;
If you'll direct his studious hour, I'll add some fifty pounds or more:
Nay, soon we hope that you will cheer
The parish with your presence here.
Miss Worthy and her sister join Their kindest compliments to mine;
And to your prayers I recommend Your faithful and admiring friend,
Jonathan Worthy.”
![]() | The three tours of Doctor Syntax | ![]() |