Galfred and Juletta Or, the Road of Nature. A Tale, In Three Cantos. By the Late Thomas Brerewood |
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| 1. |
| 2. | THE SECOND CANTO. |
| 3. |
 | Galfred and Juletta |  |
22
THE SECOND CANTO.
THE ARGUMENT TO THE SECOND CANTO.
Day-break (1). A Reflection (17). Account of the Employments of Galfred's Labourers in Farming (33). The Sun being risen, Hilda, recollecting the leaving Hubert in the Summer House, rises, and hastens thither to let him out (49). Description of the Morning (67). Finds the Door open, and Hubert gone (74). Account of Hubert's Deliverance, and his Adventures in the Night (91); in the Barn with Lucy (117). Hilda returning frighted, meets with Hubert by the Moat (151); tells him the Excuse she had made, for his Absence, to Juetta. They repair to their several Apartments before the rest are up. All rise, and breakfast (199). Farther Description of the Farm Yard (223). The Morning hot. Galfred walks out alone to see his Labourers (269). Juetta desires Hubert's Arm to walk in the Garden (273). Farther Description of the Garden (281). Sitting together there, Juetta opens her Mind to Hubert (297), but is interrupted by Hodge coming to mow the Grass (347). Returns to the Parlour, much discomposed. Reflection (359). Murdac, Hilda, and Clara, walk to Lewisham Fair (373): Description of their Walk, and the Fair (383). They leave Clara at her Aunt's, and return. Murdac, much in Liquor, on the Way, drags Hilda into a lonely Hovel; importunes her to a Compliance with his Desires; and promises Marriage afterwards (431). To satisfy him, she appoints him at Five that Evening; which he mistakes for Five in the Morning (449). Hubert accidentally being there, under Covert, overhears all (489). Murdac and Hilda depart, taking several Ways. Hubert watches them. Hilda gets home; is careful about her Mistress, and gets her Dinner (511). Description of Mid-day (533). Murdac reeling on, staggers at a Hayrick, and falls asleep till near Five, mistaking the Time of Assignation (543); is waked by the Braying of an Ass; goes to the Orchard; puts off his Clothes, and clambers a Beech to lop off an Arm. Hubert watching about, mindful of the Appointment Hilda had made with Murdac, steals his Cloaths, and runs to her Room (561). By Chance Juetta being in her Closet, that was contiguous, overhears them, and Hilda's Appointment to Hubert to meet her in her Apartment again at Five the next Morning (581). Juetta, greatly disordered, runs down, and, appearing violently ill, orders Hilda to go forthwith to Dartford for Dr. King the Physician; whence, she knew, she could not return till next Day Noon (623). The Mare is got ready, and Hilda and Baldwin set out (639). Description of a fine Evening (667). Juetta, pretending to be indisposed, proposes to lie in Hilda's Room; to keep Rose with her;—and ordering Maud to sit up with Galfred—they go to Bed (681).
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The
Morning's Dawn, the Weather clear'd,
With rosy Streaks of Light appear'd:
The op'ning Clouds, that slowly creep,
Admit the radiant Sun to peep,
Whence ev'ry Object Colour takes,
And universal Nature wakes,
But faintly mark'd, in Vapours veil'd,
The Mist of Night—yet unexhal'd.
With rosy Streaks of Light appear'd:
The op'ning Clouds, that slowly creep,
Admit the radiant Sun to peep,
Whence ev'ry Object Colour takes,
And universal Nature wakes,
But faintly mark'd, in Vapours veil'd,
The Mist of Night—yet unexhal'd.
From Beds of Flock, with swoll'n Eyes,
The yawning Clowns begin to rise;
With blubber'd Looks, and matted Hair,
For sev'ral Labours now prepare;
Most roughly clad in Jerkins worn
Of Frize, by Age and Briars torn;
With shrugging, lazy Steps proceed
To do the destin'd Works agreed.
The yawning Clowns begin to rise;
With blubber'd Looks, and matted Hair,
For sev'ral Labours now prepare;
Most roughly clad in Jerkins worn
Of Frize, by Age and Briars torn;
With shrugging, lazy Steps proceed
To do the destin'd Works agreed.
Happy Machines, devoid of Thought,
From whence our greatest Ills are wrought,
Which Apprehension mostly brings,
That Curse of Beggars, as of Kings;
For Kings are Beggars—when in Fear,
And Beggars Kings—when free from Care:
But here, well satisfy'd, we find
Content enthron'd in ev'ry Mind:
Enur'd to Labour, Cold, and Heat,
Their Round of Life they still repeat:
No Passions stir their grov'ling Minds,
Nor Pain disturbs, nor Project blinds:
With Health and Quiet bless'd, they know
The best Enjoyments here below,
And Maud in Eustace' Eye, is seen
As fair, as was the Cyprian Queen.
From whence our greatest Ills are wrought,
Which Apprehension mostly brings,
That Curse of Beggars, as of Kings;
For Kings are Beggars—when in Fear,
And Beggars Kings—when free from Care:
But here, well satisfy'd, we find
Content enthron'd in ev'ry Mind:
Enur'd to Labour, Cold, and Heat,
Their Round of Life they still repeat:
No Passions stir their grov'ling Minds,
Nor Pain disturbs, nor Project blinds:
With Health and Quiet bless'd, they know
The best Enjoyments here below,
And Maud in Eustace' Eye, is seen
As fair, as was the Cyprian Queen.
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Murdac, with ready Fork in Hand,
Directs the Bus'ness of the Land:
The Horses, from the Stable drawn,
Are yok'd to Plough at early Dawn,
Which Eustace leads to Common-field,
And Tom, behind, the Ploughshare held:
Baldwin conducts the Cart, with Prong,
In Prince's Close, to spread the Dung:
Oswald, with Bill in Hand, proceeds
To mend the Hedge in Cowslip Meads;
And Berno's sent the Tares to get,
While Hodge remains to thresh the Wheat:
The rest, to plant, to sow, or barrow,
To dig with Spade, or wheel with Barrow,
To lop the Trees, or mend the Road,
While Tibald tends the Sheep abroad.
Directs the Bus'ness of the Land:
The Horses, from the Stable drawn,
Are yok'd to Plough at early Dawn,
Which Eustace leads to Common-field,
And Tom, behind, the Ploughshare held:
Baldwin conducts the Cart, with Prong,
In Prince's Close, to spread the Dung:
Oswald, with Bill in Hand, proceeds
To mend the Hedge in Cowslip Meads;
And Berno's sent the Tares to get,
While Hodge remains to thresh the Wheat:
The rest, to plant, to sow, or barrow,
To dig with Spade, or wheel with Barrow,
To lop the Trees, or mend the Road,
While Tibald tends the Sheep abroad.
Now, Phoebus rose, began to clamber,
To shew his Face in Hilda's Chamber,
And, had he been in human Shape,
Might kiss, and she forgive the Rape;
For, not like Daphne, would she quarrel
To hazard being chang'd to Laurel,
But more compliant, had bestow'd
Her kindest Favours on the God:
But wak'd, with frighted Dreams opprest,
She, starting, rose—and, quickly, drest;
For recollecting Hubert's Case,
Her Heart relented now apace,
And, more, to tempt him to be Friends,
Resolv'd to make him full Amends:
When leaving Clara 'sleep in Bed,
She trudges down with softest Tread,
And stealing forth the Porch with Care,
With Freedom breathes the Morning Air.
To shew his Face in Hilda's Chamber,
And, had he been in human Shape,
Might kiss, and she forgive the Rape;
For, not like Daphne, would she quarrel
To hazard being chang'd to Laurel,
But more compliant, had bestow'd
Her kindest Favours on the God:
But wak'd, with frighted Dreams opprest,
She, starting, rose—and, quickly, drest;
For recollecting Hubert's Case,
Her Heart relented now apace,
And, more, to tempt him to be Friends,
Resolv'd to make him full Amends:
When leaving Clara 'sleep in Bed,
She trudges down with softest Tread,
And stealing forth the Porch with Care,
With Freedom breathes the Morning Air.
The tow'ring Lark began his Song
As Hilda tript it fast along;
Beneath, with spangled Drops of Dew
That brilliant shone, the Herbage grew,
The tender Blossoms, fragrant sweet,
By Warmth reviv'd, the Senses greet;
And chirping Birds, on ev'ry Bough,
The Force of Nature's Dictates shew;
With joyous Flight, and wanton Sport.
By Love inspir'd, each other court,
And jointly help, by Instinct press'd,
To build, with Moss, the little Nest.
As Hilda tript it fast along;
Beneath, with spangled Drops of Dew
That brilliant shone, the Herbage grew,
The tender Blossoms, fragrant sweet,
By Warmth reviv'd, the Senses greet;
And chirping Birds, on ev'ry Bough,
The Force of Nature's Dictates shew;
With joyous Flight, and wanton Sport.
By Love inspir'd, each other court,
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To build, with Moss, the little Nest.
Hilda, the Mischief to repair,
For fear the Jest had gone too far,
With great Impatience mends her Pace,
And, wing'd with Speed, soon reach'd the Place:
Advancing, first, with tim'rous Steps,
Upon the Door she, gently, taps,
But finding nothing answer—calls:
With Blows redoubled, Hubert, bawls:
Still no Reply.—Applies the Key,
And pushing forward, with her Knee,
Bolts in—and struck with Panick Fear,
She look'd—but found no Hubert there.
For fear the Jest had gone too far,
With great Impatience mends her Pace,
And, wing'd with Speed, soon reach'd the Place:
Advancing, first, with tim'rous Steps,
Upon the Door she, gently, taps,
But finding nothing answer—calls:
With Blows redoubled, Hubert, bawls:
Still no Reply.—Applies the Key,
And pushing forward, with her Knee,
Bolts in—and struck with Panick Fear,
She look'd—but found no Hubert there.
Now, 'tis but regular, we venture,
To speak of Hubert's odd Adventure,
Who, when he found the wicked Jade
This crafty, slip'ry Trick had play'd,
And pent him, thus, like Bird in Cage,
He beat, and bang'd, and storm'd with Rage:
Which, magnify'd in Oswald's Ear,
Produc'd the Shrieks—and Baldwin's Bear.
But when, at last, he found 'twas vain,
To make a Clamour, or complain,
It came into his Thoughts—to try
To burst the Door, or make it fly:
And groping down, by Chance, he found
Some Garden Tools upon the Ground,
And with a Hammer's furious Knock,
He wrench'd the Staple from the Lock:
Forth issu'd, then—he shut the Door,
And left it close—as 'twas before.
To speak of Hubert's odd Adventure,
Who, when he found the wicked Jade
This crafty, slip'ry Trick had play'd,
And pent him, thus, like Bird in Cage,
He beat, and bang'd, and storm'd with Rage:
Which, magnify'd in Oswald's Ear,
Produc'd the Shrieks—and Baldwin's Bear.
But when, at last, he found 'twas vain,
To make a Clamour, or complain,
It came into his Thoughts—to try
To burst the Door, or make it fly:
And groping down, by Chance, he found
Some Garden Tools upon the Ground,
And with a Hammer's furious Knock,
He wrench'd the Staple from the Lock:
Forth issu'd, then—he shut the Door,
And left it close—as 'twas before.
The Storm and driving Rain that beat,
Advis'd, for Shelter, some Retreat;
And passing by, the shortest Way,
Where, by the Moat, the Rook'ry lay,
A Barn there stood, by Time decay'd,
Wherein a gaping Breach was made,
Part hid with Weeds, and Nettles rank,
That, choaking, grew upon the Bank.
Advis'd, for Shelter, some Retreat;
And passing by, the shortest Way,
Where, by the Moat, the Rook'ry lay,
A Barn there stood, by Time decay'd,
Wherein a gaping Breach was made,
Part hid with Weeds, and Nettles rank,
That, choaking, grew upon the Bank.
Here, Hubert, ent'ring, thought it best,
'Till Tempest, ceast, awhile to rest:
But, to his great Surprise, he found
The Gipsy, Lucy, there, half drown'd,
Who, just returning from the Fair,
Did there, for Shelter, too, repair:
Hubert, who was a mettled Fellow,
And Lucy, friskly, ripe, and mellow,
Well pleas'd to find so good a Station,
And loth to lose a fair Occasion,
Agreed to pass the Night together,
Securely snug from blust'ring Weather,
And ten Foot high, upon the Hay,
In Dalliance pass'd their Time away:
'Twere hard, to cast Reflection on her,
Since none presum'd to touch her Honour;
But, Opportunity and Season,
As known full well, will banish Reason,
And therefore choose not, here, to wrong,
Good Hubert's Strength, with sland'rous Tongue,
For Men must know, in such a Place,
What they would do in such a Case,
And Women too, how weak the Fence
Against the tempting Lure of Sense.
'Till Tempest, ceast, awhile to rest:
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The Gipsy, Lucy, there, half drown'd,
Who, just returning from the Fair,
Did there, for Shelter, too, repair:
Hubert, who was a mettled Fellow,
And Lucy, friskly, ripe, and mellow,
Well pleas'd to find so good a Station,
And loth to lose a fair Occasion,
Agreed to pass the Night together,
Securely snug from blust'ring Weather,
And ten Foot high, upon the Hay,
In Dalliance pass'd their Time away:
'Twere hard, to cast Reflection on her,
Since none presum'd to touch her Honour;
But, Opportunity and Season,
As known full well, will banish Reason,
And therefore choose not, here, to wrong,
Good Hubert's Strength, with sland'rous Tongue,
For Men must know, in such a Place,
What they would do in such a Case,
And Women too, how weak the Fence
Against the tempting Lure of Sense.
The Bed so sweet, we may surmise,
They knew not, either, how to rise,
But, as the Morning Light might prove
Too glaring, for the Seat of Love,
Lucy no longer would refrain
To set her Cloaths to Rights again;
And, since the Bus'ness of the Day
Would not admit too much of Play,
Well satisfy'd with this Beginning,
She parting, buss'd, and went a Spinning.
They knew not, either, how to rise,
But, as the Morning Light might prove
Too glaring, for the Seat of Love,
Lucy no longer would refrain
To set her Cloaths to Rights again;
And, since the Bus'ness of the Day
Would not admit too much of Play,
Well satisfy'd with this Beginning,
She parting, buss'd, and went a Spinning.
Return we now, as fit, again
To speak of Hilda's Fright and Pain,
For, first, she thought some dev'lish Spell
Had carry'd Hubert down to Hell,
And thus, in Whirlwind borne away
By Beelzebub, his Scores to pay,
And therefore thought, though hard to swallow,
That she in Justice, too, might follow;
On which Account, with dreadful Fear
She bent her Steps—she knew not where,
'Till passing by the Barn—in Sadness,
Biting her Thumbs—in very Madness,
Saw, looking forwards, t'wards the Moat,
Hubert, a butt'ning up his Coat,
And running to him,—yet, in Fear,
Cried,—“Oh! how glad I am you're here,
“For much I fear'd some dreadful Evil
“Had been your Lot, from Man or Devil;
“For when, last Night, thro' all the Rain,
“I went to let you out again,
“And found you gone,—and all the Night
“No Tidings—to relieve my Fright,
“No Thought can reach, or Tongue impart
“My Grief of Mind, or Pain of Heart:
“Forgive me, Hubert, this Excursion,
“Intended only for Diversion,
“And as you know—for our Repose,
“'Tis best to keep our Secrets close:
“My Mistress thinks you're now reposing,
“And with the Doctor's Powder dozing,
“Which, for your Illness—my Invention,
“She order'd you—in kind Intention.
To speak of Hilda's Fright and Pain,
For, first, she thought some dev'lish Spell
Had carry'd Hubert down to Hell,
And thus, in Whirlwind borne away
By Beelzebub, his Scores to pay,
And therefore thought, though hard to swallow,
That she in Justice, too, might follow;
On which Account, with dreadful Fear
She bent her Steps—she knew not where,
'Till passing by the Barn—in Sadness,
Biting her Thumbs—in very Madness,
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Hubert, a butt'ning up his Coat,
And running to him,—yet, in Fear,
Cried,—“Oh! how glad I am you're here,
“For much I fear'd some dreadful Evil
“Had been your Lot, from Man or Devil;
“For when, last Night, thro' all the Rain,
“I went to let you out again,
“And found you gone,—and all the Night
“No Tidings—to relieve my Fright,
“No Thought can reach, or Tongue impart
“My Grief of Mind, or Pain of Heart:
“Forgive me, Hubert, this Excursion,
“Intended only for Diversion,
“And as you know—for our Repose,
“'Tis best to keep our Secrets close:
“My Mistress thinks you're now reposing,
“And with the Doctor's Powder dozing,
“Which, for your Illness—my Invention,
“She order'd you—in kind Intention.
Hubert, who, in his Mind, projected
To be reveng'd—when least suspected,
Well knowing that Dissimulation
Is greatest Friend to Inclination;
Approving best—his Thoughts to bide,
With ravisht Kisses—thus replied:
“My fairest Hilda, much I owe
“For Kindness your Expressions shew,
“And, far from Anger, well approve
“These little Sallies of your Love;
“'Tis all forgot:—Let's hasten home,
“You, to your Chamber—I, my Room.”
This said, they parted, Arm in Arm,
Free from Suspicion, or Alarm,
And, up the Staircase, soon, recover'd
Each their Apartment—undiscover'd.
To be reveng'd—when least suspected,
Well knowing that Dissimulation
Is greatest Friend to Inclination;
Approving best—his Thoughts to bide,
With ravisht Kisses—thus replied:
“My fairest Hilda, much I owe
“For Kindness your Expressions shew,
“And, far from Anger, well approve
“These little Sallies of your Love;
“'Tis all forgot:—Let's hasten home,
“You, to your Chamber—I, my Room.”
This said, they parted, Arm in Arm,
Free from Suspicion, or Alarm,
And, up the Staircase, soon, recover'd
Each their Apartment—undiscover'd.
The Clock struck Six:—And Clara, dress'd,
Her Joy, in ev'ry Look express'd;
For Murdac promis'd she should go
To Day, with Hilda, see a Shew:
In Jumps of Gladness she prepares,
And trips, with Hilda, down the Stairs.
Her Joy, in ev'ry Look express'd;
For Murdac promis'd she should go
To Day, with Hilda, see a Shew:
In Jumps of Gladness she prepares,
And trips, with Hilda, down the Stairs.
Old Galfred cough'd; Juetta spake;
For both, some Time, had been awake;
When enter'd, Clara ran in Haste,
And both, with fond Caress, embrac'd:
The Shirt, and Flannel Waistcoat air'd,
And Galfred's Vigour now repair'd,
From Bed arising—Hilda reaches,
With titt'ring Smiles, his Buckskin Breeches,
Which Galfred, slily bent, receives,
And pats her Bosom, as it heaves:
Equipt, and Woollen Cap put on,
With careful Tread, he hobbles down,
While poor Juetta, indispos'd
With grievous Headach, longer doz'd,
And charging Hilda's special Care
Her Master's Breakfast to prepare,
Directed, none with Noise presume
To break her Rest—but leave the Room.
For both, some Time, had been awake;
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And both, with fond Caress, embrac'd:
The Shirt, and Flannel Waistcoat air'd,
And Galfred's Vigour now repair'd,
From Bed arising—Hilda reaches,
With titt'ring Smiles, his Buckskin Breeches,
Which Galfred, slily bent, receives,
And pats her Bosom, as it heaves:
Equipt, and Woollen Cap put on,
With careful Tread, he hobbles down,
While poor Juetta, indispos'd
With grievous Headach, longer doz'd,
And charging Hilda's special Care
Her Master's Breakfast to prepare,
Directed, none with Noise presume
To break her Rest—but leave the Room.
Now, brighter grows diffusive Light,
And ev'ry Object chears the Sight,
The darting Rays with Splendour warm,
And humming Bees begin to swarm.
Without, the lowing Cows do wait
With strutting Udders, at the Gate,
Which op'ning, Blanche as kindly treats,
And claps their Sides, and stroaks their Teats.
The Hogs, with snorting Gladness, greet
The straddling Wench that brings them Meat.
And Cicely calls the Poultry round,
And spreads the Barley on the Ground,
Which thievish Sparrows, from the Thatch,
With chirping Impudence, do catch.
And ev'ry Object chears the Sight,
The darting Rays with Splendour warm,
And humming Bees begin to swarm.
Without, the lowing Cows do wait
With strutting Udders, at the Gate,
Which op'ning, Blanche as kindly treats,
And claps their Sides, and stroaks their Teats.
The Hogs, with snorting Gladness, greet
The straddling Wench that brings them Meat.
And Cicely calls the Poultry round,
And spreads the Barley on the Ground,
Which thievish Sparrows, from the Thatch,
With chirping Impudence, do catch.
Maud in the Kitchen, Brush in Hands,
Performs the Work the House demands,
And having gratify'd her Wishes,
Had set to rights her Pans and Dishes;
While Lucy, wriggling of her Heel,
Demurely sits at Spinning Wheel.
Performs the Work the House demands,
And having gratify'd her Wishes,
Had set to rights her Pans and Dishes;
While Lucy, wriggling of her Heel,
Demurely sits at Spinning Wheel.
Juetta's
Headach much amended,
Which on Indulgence most depended,
She rose; but, dizzy in her Head,
Could scarce go down, by Hilda led;
But Breakfast brought, and all in Order,
It lessen'd, greatly, her Disorder,
And, tho' a little sick at Heart,
Sipp'd off, of Chocolate, a Quart:
While Galfred, better judging, fed
On good Milk Porridge stuff'd with Bread,
And thus made up, as well as might,
The Perspiration of the Night.
Which on Indulgence most depended,
She rose; but, dizzy in her Head,
Could scarce go down, by Hilda led;
But Breakfast brought, and all in Order,
It lessen'd, greatly, her Disorder,
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Sipp'd off, of Chocolate, a Quart:
While Galfred, better judging, fed
On good Milk Porridge stuff'd with Bread,
And thus made up, as well as might,
The Perspiration of the Night.
Hubert descending, as from Bed,
With Nightcap yet upon his Head,
With great Respect, and good Behaviour,
Return'd his Thanks for Lady's Favour;
While she, by Tokens plain, discover'd
Her Joy; to find him well recover'd;
Extolling, as the finest Thing,
The Cordial Balls of Doctor King.
With Nightcap yet upon his Head,
With great Respect, and good Behaviour,
Return'd his Thanks for Lady's Favour;
While she, by Tokens plain, discover'd
Her Joy; to find him well recover'd;
Extolling, as the finest Thing,
The Cordial Balls of Doctor King.
Murdac with Sunday's Coat—full long,
New Hat, and Wig—in Buckle strong,
And Hilda, trim, and neat, and fair,
In Hat of Straw, with Country Air,
Now with the pretty Clara walk'd,
To see the Fair—of which they talk'd.
New Hat, and Wig—in Buckle strong,
And Hilda, trim, and neat, and fair,
In Hat of Straw, with Country Air,
Now with the pretty Clara walk'd,
To see the Fair—of which they talk'd.
Mean While, good Galfred, all alone,
Went out, to see what Work was done,
And with his honest Bluntness, fam'd,
Encourag'd some, and others blam'd.
Went out, to see what Work was done,
And with his honest Bluntness, fam'd,
Encourag'd some, and others blam'd.
Hubert was taking Leave to go,
As having something else to do:
But, at Juetta's Suit, he stay'd,
And to her Will Observance paid:
When, leaning on his Arm, at Length,
With feeble Voice, and little Strength,
She will'd him to the Garden go,
To breathe the Air, an Hour—or so.
As having something else to do:
But, at Juetta's Suit, he stay'd,
And to her Will Observance paid:
When, leaning on his Arm, at Length,
With feeble Voice, and little Strength,
She will'd him to the Garden go,
To breathe the Air, an Hour—or so.
The Sun was hot, and, as 'twas meet,
Requir'd some shady, cool Retreat;
And soon they found a small Alcove,
Obscurely plac'd within the Grove,
Of antique Form, with Lattice drest,
As made for Time himself to rest;
Above their Heads, the awful Shade
An ample Canopy had made,
And all around the Jasmine twin'd,
With Woodbine's fragrant Sweets combin'd:
The cawing Rooks, with circling Flight,
In undisturb'd Repose delight:
Along the Walk the Blackbird flew,
To court his Mate beneath the Eugh;
And warbling Birds, in wildest Notes,
Securely stretch'd their little Throats.
Requir'd some shady, cool Retreat;
And soon they found a small Alcove,
Obscurely plac'd within the Grove,
Of antique Form, with Lattice drest,
As made for Time himself to rest;
Above their Heads, the awful Shade
An ample Canopy had made,
30
With Woodbine's fragrant Sweets combin'd:
The cawing Rooks, with circling Flight,
In undisturb'd Repose delight:
Along the Walk the Blackbird flew,
To court his Mate beneath the Eugh;
And warbling Birds, in wildest Notes,
Securely stretch'd their little Throats.
Here Hubert and Juetta sate
In free Society, and Chatt,
When ush'ring in, by plain Advances,
With simp'ring Looks, and am'rous Glances,
“Hubert,” says she, “I much approve
“Your faithful Service, and your Love:
“I freely own, that Galfred's Years
“Deceive my Hopes, and raise my Fears;
“For, daily, more and more I find,
“How weak his Body and his Mind,
“And, to my Sorrow, often prove
“The feeble Efforts of his Love:
“Thus, all my Pains can hardly raise
“A Hope, to lengthen long his Days.
“But, should most unrelenting Fate
“Leave me in wretched Widow's State,
“On you, alone, I can depend,
“By active Warmth, to be my Friend:
“Mean Time, you know the hard Restraint
“On Woman waits, in all we want;
“For, so censorious is the Time,
“We scarce can look—without a Crime:
“And as the busy Eye will watch,
“And ev'ry harmless Motion catch,
“Our Impulse, best 'tis to withstand,”
(With this she, gently, squeez'd his Hand)
“And carefully avoid Reflection,
“In finding Places from Inspection:
“These Reasons, Hubert, made me to choose
“This fair Occasion not to lose,
“Where, under Covert, one may find
“The Pow'r to act—or speak one's Mind.”
In free Society, and Chatt,
When ush'ring in, by plain Advances,
With simp'ring Looks, and am'rous Glances,
“Hubert,” says she, “I much approve
“Your faithful Service, and your Love:
“I freely own, that Galfred's Years
“Deceive my Hopes, and raise my Fears;
“For, daily, more and more I find,
“How weak his Body and his Mind,
“And, to my Sorrow, often prove
“The feeble Efforts of his Love:
“Thus, all my Pains can hardly raise
“A Hope, to lengthen long his Days.
“But, should most unrelenting Fate
“Leave me in wretched Widow's State,
“On you, alone, I can depend,
“By active Warmth, to be my Friend:
“Mean Time, you know the hard Restraint
“On Woman waits, in all we want;
“For, so censorious is the Time,
“We scarce can look—without a Crime:
“And as the busy Eye will watch,
“And ev'ry harmless Motion catch,
“Our Impulse, best 'tis to withstand,”
(With this she, gently, squeez'd his Hand)
“And carefully avoid Reflection,
“In finding Places from Inspection:
“These Reasons, Hubert, made me to choose
“This fair Occasion not to lose,
“Where, under Covert, one may find
“The Pow'r to act—or speak one's Mind.”
With this, she cast a wishful Look,
That with expressive Ardour spoke.
But Hubert, tho' of Flesh and Blood,
The tempting Lure, with Pain, withstood:
For being honest—in Intention,
(Eluding wisely—by Prevention)
Unwilling, yet, to understand,
With humble Mien withdrew his Hand,
And thus reply'd:—“How shall I find
“The Words, to speak my grateful Mind:
“Believe me, Madam, Time nor Fate
“Will ever other Thoughts create,
“My Master's Goodness such, that all
“My Services will be too small:
“But, should inexorable Death
“Deprive him of his precious Breath,
“To you belongs the warmest Zeal
“That Tongue can speak, or Heart can feel.”
That with expressive Ardour spoke.
But Hubert, tho' of Flesh and Blood,
The tempting Lure, with Pain, withstood:
31
(Eluding wisely—by Prevention)
Unwilling, yet, to understand,
With humble Mien withdrew his Hand,
And thus reply'd:—“How shall I find
“The Words, to speak my grateful Mind:
“Believe me, Madam, Time nor Fate
“Will ever other Thoughts create,
“My Master's Goodness such, that all
“My Services will be too small:
“But, should inexorable Death
“Deprive him of his precious Breath,
“To you belongs the warmest Zeal
“That Tongue can speak, or Heart can feel.”
Scarce had he spoke, but who should pass,
But Hodge, with Sycthe, to mow the Grass;
When rising, with distracted Air
Of Disappointment, Rage, and Fear,
She hobbled back, almost in Swoon,
And on the Couch—she laid her down.
But Hodge, with Sycthe, to mow the Grass;
When rising, with distracted Air
Of Disappointment, Rage, and Fear,
She hobbled back, almost in Swoon,
And on the Couch—she laid her down.
Galfred return'd, was on the Border
Of Death, to see his Chuck's Disorder.
With quiv'ring Hand held up her Head,
Most weighty grown—the Senses fled:
But Hartshorn, by its usual Merits,
In some Degree recall'd her Spirits.
Of Death, to see his Chuck's Disorder.
With quiv'ring Hand held up her Head,
Most weighty grown—the Senses fled:
But Hartshorn, by its usual Merits,
In some Degree recall'd her Spirits.
As Grief and Joy alternate sway
The Soul that actuates human Clay,
So, in this History, we read
That unforeseen Events succeed
To give Vexation, Grief, or Pain,
And then, Delight and Joy, again:
For tho' the Wretch's Lot appears
Severe and hard, for Length of Years,
The Scene will surely change at last,
And Joy compensate Sorrows past:
Thus, turning round like Fortune's Wheel,
An Interval of Mirth will steal.
But, not to dwell on Scenes of Care,
Let's take a Trip to Lew'sham Fair.
The Soul that actuates human Clay,
So, in this History, we read
That unforeseen Events succeed
To give Vexation, Grief, or Pain,
And then, Delight and Joy, again:
For tho' the Wretch's Lot appears
Severe and hard, for Length of Years,
The Scene will surely change at last,
And Joy compensate Sorrows past:
Thus, turning round like Fortune's Wheel,
An Interval of Mirth will steal.
But, not to dwell on Scenes of Care,
Let's take a Trip to Lew'sham Fair.
The Walking dry, and charming Weather,
With Hearts as light as any Feather,
Murdac, with Hilda, round the Waist,
Pursu'd the Path with eager Haste,
While little Clara, wild and gay,
Pick'd up the Daisies by the Way;
Thro' Meadows, Woods, and Fields they pass,
O'er clotted Glebe, and Stiles, and Grass;
And pushing forwards, very soon
They enter'd, gazing, Lew'sham Town.
With Hearts as light as any Feather,
32
Pursu'd the Path with eager Haste,
While little Clara, wild and gay,
Pick'd up the Daisies by the Way;
Thro' Meadows, Woods, and Fields they pass,
O'er clotted Glebe, and Stiles, and Grass;
And pushing forwards, very soon
They enter'd, gazing, Lew'sham Town.
Here, Clara was as full of Prattle,
As was the Place of Noise and Rattle,
For, what with thrusting, fiddling, squeaking,
There was no bearing well, or speaking;
But when the Andrew—sounding Trumpet,
Was follow'd by Queen Dido—Strumpet,
Her little Hands erect, and Eyes,
Betray'd her Pleasure and Surprise:
Here, coz'ning Chapmen, under Shed,
With Canvass strain'd, or Sailcloth spread,
Retail their Tinsel Toys, and Laces,
To fing'ring Clowns with wond'ring Faces;
There, Lads and Lasses,—kissing, laughing,
And Jolly Farmers,—joking, quaffing,
While standing some, and some on Benches,
Are fondly hugging—squeaking Wenches:
Some, crowding, press to see the Shew,
And others saunter, to and fro,
To purchase Gingerbread, and Toys,
To munch themselves, or please their Boys,
Who scamp'ring run, as if for Life,
When Punch is beating of his Wife.
Now rattling Drum proclaims, the Wonder
Of all the World, is standing yonder,
Where, on the painted Cloth, appear
The Lion, Porcupine, and Bear.
Some, thronging, gape to see the Prank
Of Andrew with the Mountebank,
Who, round the Stage in Velvet struts,
To gripe their Pockets—and their Guts;
While others, stretch'd on Tiptoe, stand
To see the Feats of Slight of Hand,
Or on the Rope, to view the Jade
Expose her Legs—for gainful Trade.
As was the Place of Noise and Rattle,
For, what with thrusting, fiddling, squeaking,
There was no bearing well, or speaking;
But when the Andrew—sounding Trumpet,
Was follow'd by Queen Dido—Strumpet,
Her little Hands erect, and Eyes,
Betray'd her Pleasure and Surprise:
Here, coz'ning Chapmen, under Shed,
With Canvass strain'd, or Sailcloth spread,
Retail their Tinsel Toys, and Laces,
To fing'ring Clowns with wond'ring Faces;
There, Lads and Lasses,—kissing, laughing,
And Jolly Farmers,—joking, quaffing,
While standing some, and some on Benches,
Are fondly hugging—squeaking Wenches:
Some, crowding, press to see the Shew,
And others saunter, to and fro,
To purchase Gingerbread, and Toys,
To munch themselves, or please their Boys,
Who scamp'ring run, as if for Life,
When Punch is beating of his Wife.
Now rattling Drum proclaims, the Wonder
Of all the World, is standing yonder,
Where, on the painted Cloth, appear
The Lion, Porcupine, and Bear.
Some, thronging, gape to see the Prank
Of Andrew with the Mountebank,
Who, round the Stage in Velvet struts,
To gripe their Pockets—and their Guts;
While others, stretch'd on Tiptoe, stand
To see the Feats of Slight of Hand,
Or on the Rope, to view the Jade
Expose her Legs—for gainful Trade.
But were we, now, to search the Houses,
And tell the Tricks with Girls and Spouses,
The Gambols, Merriment and Jesting,
The Effects of Liquor, Sport and Feasting,
In ev'ry Corner, ev'ry Shed,
Or on the Stools, or on the Bed;
'Twou'd raise a Glow, perhaps might cause
Too strong a Bent to Nature's Laws;
Enough it is for me, to tell,
That Murdac treated Hilda well;
And having furnish'd all their Wants,
And Clara left to stay at Aunt's;
He now return'd, in tipsy Mood,
As Hilda too, had warm'd her Blood.
And tell the Tricks with Girls and Spouses,
33
The Effects of Liquor, Sport and Feasting,
In ev'ry Corner, ev'ry Shed,
Or on the Stools, or on the Bed;
'Twou'd raise a Glow, perhaps might cause
Too strong a Bent to Nature's Laws;
Enough it is for me, to tell,
That Murdac treated Hilda well;
And having furnish'd all their Wants,
And Clara left to stay at Aunt's;
He now return'd, in tipsy Mood,
As Hilda too, had warm'd her Blood.
Thus, loving clasp'd, as on the Way,
There stood a Hovel, made of Clay
With Bavins mix'd, obscure and low,
To shelter Cows in Frost and Snow;
Murdac, with boist'rous Start of Love,
By Force compell'd her, there, to move,
Where, under Covert, stagg'ring down,
He spoke—and dragging of her Gown,
With stamm'ring Utt'rance, surest Sign
Of raging Lust, as well as Wine;
“My Dear—do—do but—do but grant
“The Pleasures now, you know, I want,
“And you shall be my Wife I vow,
“But let me do it—do it—now:
“In Country Way, it is no Lie,
“We always prove, before we buy;
“And” [swearing] “if you'll give me Ease,
“You shall be marry'd, when you please.”
There stood a Hovel, made of Clay
With Bavins mix'd, obscure and low,
To shelter Cows in Frost and Snow;
Murdac, with boist'rous Start of Love,
By Force compell'd her, there, to move,
Where, under Covert, stagg'ring down,
He spoke—and dragging of her Gown,
With stamm'ring Utt'rance, surest Sign
Of raging Lust, as well as Wine;
“My Dear—do—do but—do but grant
“The Pleasures now, you know, I want,
“And you shall be my Wife I vow,
“But let me do it—do it—now:
“In Country Way, it is no Lie,
“We always prove, before we buy;
“And” [swearing] “if you'll give me Ease,
“You shall be marry'd, when you please.”
Hilda, in Danger, now, of Might,
No Doubt had been in dreadful Fright,
But that the Promise made of Marriage
Did chasen Fear, and soften Carriage;
And judg'd, for ought that she cou'd tell,
A Contract's best, with Nature's Seal:
Besides, as being Country-bred,
Their Ways ran always in her Head:
She yielded to his bold Request,
But thought, another Place was best;
When holding fast her Coats, to guard,
And struggling, his Efforts to ward;
“Hold Murdac, hold” (says she) “my Dear,
“Be modest—and awhile forbear;
“We're here expos'd, and may be seen
“By some of Galfred's tattling Men,
“And with most horrid Shame be routed:
“I wou'd not have my Virtue doubted:
“Be quiet, let my Cloaths alone:”
(With that, she strove to keep them down)
“But as your Love I really prize
“Above my Honour, or my Eyes,
“And as I know, your Promise giv'n,
“Is good as any under Heav'n;
“Suppress, at present, your Desires,
“Which Decency, you know, requires;
“And, if at Hour of Five you'll come,
“And softly steal into my Room,
“I'll keep the Window-shutters to,
“That none may see—what 'tis we do;
“But as my Lady's Closet joins,
“Where she preserves her Drams and Wines,
“Be sure be silent—which accords,
“Better, with what we do—than Words;
“At present, let us both begone,
“And you'll be better, after Noon.”
No Doubt had been in dreadful Fright,
But that the Promise made of Marriage
Did chasen Fear, and soften Carriage;
And judg'd, for ought that she cou'd tell,
A Contract's best, with Nature's Seal:
Besides, as being Country-bred,
Their Ways ran always in her Head:
She yielded to his bold Request,
But thought, another Place was best;
When holding fast her Coats, to guard,
And struggling, his Efforts to ward;
“Hold Murdac, hold” (says she) “my Dear,
“Be modest—and awhile forbear;
34
“By some of Galfred's tattling Men,
“And with most horrid Shame be routed:
“I wou'd not have my Virtue doubted:
“Be quiet, let my Cloaths alone:”
(With that, she strove to keep them down)
“But as your Love I really prize
“Above my Honour, or my Eyes,
“And as I know, your Promise giv'n,
“Is good as any under Heav'n;
“Suppress, at present, your Desires,
“Which Decency, you know, requires;
“And, if at Hour of Five you'll come,
“And softly steal into my Room,
“I'll keep the Window-shutters to,
“That none may see—what 'tis we do;
“But as my Lady's Closet joins,
“Where she preserves her Drams and Wines,
“Be sure be silent—which accords,
“Better, with what we do—than Words;
“At present, let us both begone,
“And you'll be better, after Noon.”
Murdac contented, then arose,
Wiping the Dirt from off his Cloaths.
And, held by Hilda, reeling on,
They homewards went, but parted soon.
Wiping the Dirt from off his Cloaths.
And, held by Hilda, reeling on,
They homewards went, but parted soon.
'Tis strange, what Accidents arrive,
As if the Devil did contrive:
But often, well-concerted Schemes
Abortive prove, like idle Dreams;
And so it was. To solve the Riddle,
The Place was parted in the Middle;
And Hubert, whom the sultry Heat
Had much fatigu'd with Toil and Sweat,
Was in the farthest Part unseen
Asleep, when Murdac enter'd in;
But waking, with the boist'rous Noise,
And knowing well his croaking Voice,
He kept him close, by Fortune plac'd,
And saw, and heard, whatever pass'd:
Inflam'd with Thoughts that Chance inspir'd,
And with Designs projected, fir'd,
By what Device, might be repaid
The Trick, that Hilda lately play'd;
As soon as gone, he sallied out,
And ventur'd Home, tho' round-about,
Resolv'd to watch their Waters well,
And act according as befel.
As if the Devil did contrive:
But often, well-concerted Schemes
Abortive prove, like idle Dreams;
And so it was. To solve the Riddle,
The Place was parted in the Middle;
And Hubert, whom the sultry Heat
Had much fatigu'd with Toil and Sweat,
Was in the farthest Part unseen
Asleep, when Murdac enter'd in;
But waking, with the boist'rous Noise,
And knowing well his croaking Voice,
He kept him close, by Fortune plac'd,
And saw, and heard, whatever pass'd:
Inflam'd with Thoughts that Chance inspir'd,
And with Designs projected, fir'd,
By what Device, might be repaid
The Trick, that Hilda lately play'd;
35
And ventur'd Home, tho' round-about,
Resolv'd to watch their Waters well,
And act according as befel.
Hilda return'd, as was requir'd,
Her Head employ'd, tho' Body tir'd,—
Repair'd to know Juetta's Pleasure,
To be hereafter more at Leisure;
Whom finding in weak Posture sate,
And Symptoms of Hysterick State,
With frighted Looks and decent Hurry,
She shew'd her great Concern and Flurry;
Well skim'd the Chicken Broth with Speed,
As nothing else so well agreed,
Which cook'd with Care and cleanly done,
Procur'd her Quiet, and her own:
Soon after, Dinner was prepar'd,
Which only she and Galfred shar'd;
But as their Stomachs both were nice,
And wanted something in a Trice,
The Food they judg'd wou'd best abide,
Were Petit-toes and Lamb-stones fry'd,
Which, having heartily divided,
Juetta's Vapours then subsided;
And both, with heavy Slumbers press'd,
In Elbow Chairs soon fell to rest.
Her Head employ'd, tho' Body tir'd,—
Repair'd to know Juetta's Pleasure,
To be hereafter more at Leisure;
Whom finding in weak Posture sate,
And Symptoms of Hysterick State,
With frighted Looks and decent Hurry,
She shew'd her great Concern and Flurry;
Well skim'd the Chicken Broth with Speed,
As nothing else so well agreed,
Which cook'd with Care and cleanly done,
Procur'd her Quiet, and her own:
Soon after, Dinner was prepar'd,
Which only she and Galfred shar'd;
But as their Stomachs both were nice,
And wanted something in a Trice,
The Food they judg'd wou'd best abide,
Were Petit-toes and Lamb-stones fry'd,
Which, having heartily divided,
Juetta's Vapours then subsided;
And both, with heavy Slumbers press'd,
In Elbow Chairs soon fell to rest.
Now, downward dart the hottest Rays,
To dim the Sight with glaring Blaze;
With Wasps, the madded Beasts are stung,
And buzzing Flies, surround the Dung;
In shady Barns and Corners sate,
The loit'ring Hinds their Morsels eat,
And some, extended on the Floor
At their full Length, profoundly snore;
While in the Pond the Herd abides,
And lash their Tails to cool their Hides.
To dim the Sight with glaring Blaze;
With Wasps, the madded Beasts are stung,
And buzzing Flies, surround the Dung;
In shady Barns and Corners sate,
The loit'ring Hinds their Morsels eat,
And some, extended on the Floor
At their full Length, profoundly snore;
While in the Pond the Herd abides,
And lash their Tails to cool their Hides.
Murdac with stagg'ring Steps proceeds,
Where Chance directs, or Vapour leads,
Till stumbling by a Rick of Hay,
He headlong pitch'd, and rolling lay;
Here full three Hours, in Sleep profound,
His lumpish Senses had been drown'd;
'Till, near the Time appointed, rousing,
By Asses Bray—that there were browsing,
He recollected—by the Warning,
But thought it was—for Five at Morning;
For, being, then, exceeding fuddled,
And, now, his Brain by Vision muddled,
It turn'd him topsiturvy quite,
And made him take the Wrong for Right:
So, sitting up, upon his Breech,
And yawning with extended Stretch,
He got upon his Legs, and went
About his Bus'ness, well content.
Where Chance directs, or Vapour leads,
Till stumbling by a Rick of Hay,
He headlong pitch'd, and rolling lay;
Here full three Hours, in Sleep profound,
His lumpish Senses had been drown'd;
36
By Asses Bray—that there were browsing,
He recollected—by the Warning,
But thought it was—for Five at Morning;
For, being, then, exceeding fuddled,
And, now, his Brain by Vision muddled,
It turn'd him topsiturvy quite,
And made him take the Wrong for Right:
So, sitting up, upon his Breech,
And yawning with extended Stretch,
He got upon his Legs, and went
About his Bus'ness, well content.
Soon after, Hubert, who, as said,
Some Scheme, to circumvent, had laid,
Was, slily, looking all about,
To watch the Motions of the Lout:
At last, within the Orchard, found
His Cloaths, a lying on the Ground;
For Murdac, on a Beech, hard by,
Was lopping off an Arm, on high;
And, while intent upon his Blows,
Hubert convey'd away his Cloaths:
Away he stole, with watchful Eye,
Quite unobserv'd by any Spy,
And to his Chamber quickly hies
To leave his own—for this Disguise,
Which, as with Metal trimm'd, would stand
The curious Search of Hilda's Hand:
With slutt'ring Joy, the Time now come,
He, softly, enters Hilda's Room,
Where, well prepar'd, with Darkness spread,
She lay, expecting—on the Bed.
Some Scheme, to circumvent, had laid,
Was, slily, looking all about,
To watch the Motions of the Lout:
At last, within the Orchard, found
His Cloaths, a lying on the Ground;
For Murdac, on a Beech, hard by,
Was lopping off an Arm, on high;
And, while intent upon his Blows,
Hubert convey'd away his Cloaths:
Away he stole, with watchful Eye,
Quite unobserv'd by any Spy,
And to his Chamber quickly hies
To leave his own—for this Disguise,
Which, as with Metal trimm'd, would stand
The curious Search of Hilda's Hand:
With slutt'ring Joy, the Time now come,
He, softly, enters Hilda's Room,
Where, well prepar'd, with Darkness spread,
She lay, expecting—on the Bed.
As Fortune oft, that wicked Hussy,
Delights to be with Lovers busy,
By Chance Juetta came to visit,
Just then, her dear Retreat, the Closet:
The cunning Hilda, to be sure
From all Suspicion, and secure,
Had ask'd her Leave, to see a Neighbour,
Who sent t' invite her to her Labour:
Juetta who, from sad Reflection,
Then labour'd under great Dejection,
While Galfred slept, was, now, come up
To take one cordial, chearing Cup,
But hearing, suddenly, a Rust'ling
In Hilda's Room, and something bustling,
She, to a Crevice bending Ear,
With strange Surprise, these Words did hear:
“Now, Hilda, you are fairly bit,
“For what I suffer'd—by Deceit:
“That roguish Trick!—I yet approve,
“All Stratagems are fair in Love:
“But, if you would not be defeated,
“This Interview must be repeated;
“And Murdac may, in Peace, provide
“To make you—his elected Bride.”
Delights to be with Lovers busy,
By Chance Juetta came to visit,
Just then, her dear Retreat, the Closet:
The cunning Hilda, to be sure
From all Suspicion, and secure,
Had ask'd her Leave, to see a Neighbour,
Who sent t' invite her to her Labour:
Juetta who, from sad Reflection,
Then labour'd under great Dejection,
While Galfred slept, was, now, come up
To take one cordial, chearing Cup,
37
In Hilda's Room, and something bustling,
She, to a Crevice bending Ear,
With strange Surprise, these Words did hear:
“Now, Hilda, you are fairly bit,
“For what I suffer'd—by Deceit:
“That roguish Trick!—I yet approve,
“All Stratagems are fair in Love:
“But, if you would not be defeated,
“This Interview must be repeated;
“And Murdac may, in Peace, provide
“To make you—his elected Bride.”
Hilda was struck with great Surprise,
But yet, with Laughter, thus replies:
“You Villain! how could you pretend
“By Plots, like these, to make a Friend?
“And yet, I cannot help forgive
“The pleasant Way that you deceive:
“But, dearest Hubert, I depend
“Upon your Honour—to the End.
“To speak the Truth—as much inclin'd,
“I always lov'd you—in my Mind;
“And as a Proof of my Regard,
“As well—your Silence to reward,
“Come hither in the Morn at Five,
“You'll find me here, if I'm alive.”
This said, with grateful Thanks, her Due,
He, gently, from her Arms withdrew,
And, softly treading, reach'd the Door,
When Silence reign'd, as did before.
But yet, with Laughter, thus replies:
“You Villain! how could you pretend
“By Plots, like these, to make a Friend?
“And yet, I cannot help forgive
“The pleasant Way that you deceive:
“But, dearest Hubert, I depend
“Upon your Honour—to the End.
“To speak the Truth—as much inclin'd,
“I always lov'd you—in my Mind;
“And as a Proof of my Regard,
“As well—your Silence to reward,
“Come hither in the Morn at Five,
“You'll find me here, if I'm alive.”
This said, with grateful Thanks, her Due,
He, gently, from her Arms withdrew,
And, softly treading, reach'd the Door,
When Silence reign'd, as did before.
To keep Juetta's
Spirits up,
She could not help—the other Sup:
But, notwithstanding Cordials ready,
A certain Furor seiz'd the Lady,
When, down she went, as in Despair,
And slung her Self—in Easy Chair;
“The Doctor” cries!—go!—quickly!—fly!
Or else, I certainly shall die.
The Bell was rung, and Hilda came
To help support the struggling Dame.
Poor Galfred look'd like any Ghost,
For fear his Deary should be lost.
At length, her Fits decreasing, brought
The Use of Speech, and settled Thought;
When strait she will'd, that Hilda bring
From Dartford, hither, Doctor K***.
She could not help—the other Sup:
But, notwithstanding Cordials ready,
A certain Furor seiz'd the Lady,
When, down she went, as in Despair,
And slung her Self—in Easy Chair;
“The Doctor” cries!—go!—quickly!—fly!
Or else, I certainly shall die.
The Bell was rung, and Hilda came
To help support the struggling Dame.
Poor Galfred look'd like any Ghost,
For fear his Deary should be lost.
At length, her Fits decreasing, brought
The Use of Speech, and settled Thought;
38
From Dartford, hither, Doctor K***.
Hilda, who lov'd her Mistress well,
Was greatly shock'd at what befel,
And as Disinterest discovers
A true Concern, forgot her Lovers:
Besides, the Journey much delighting.
As were her Lady's Fits affrighting,
Prepar'd, with Pleasure, to obey,
Nor, longer wasted Time of Day:
Baldwin was bid from Grass to get
The dappled Pad, with Pillion fit;
And Hilda, as the Case requir'd,
In Riding Suit was soon attir'd.
Was greatly shock'd at what befel,
And as Disinterest discovers
A true Concern, forgot her Lovers:
Besides, the Journey much delighting.
As were her Lady's Fits affrighting,
Prepar'd, with Pleasure, to obey,
Nor, longer wasted Time of Day:
Baldwin was bid from Grass to get
The dappled Pad, with Pillion fit;
And Hilda, as the Case requir'd,
In Riding Suit was soon attir'd.
The Palfrey brought, with heavy Straddle
Baldwin was mounted in the Saddle;
And Tom (for Hubert was not there)
Help'd Hilda up, with modest Care:
But still, there was some little Trouble,
The Mare, not us'd to carry double,
Would kick behind, by Starts and Fits;
Yet Hilda, still, with Courage sits,
And fast to Baldwin clinging, reaches
For Pommel, round his Leathern Breeches:
But gentle now, and she well plac'd,
Tom holds the Gate—and out they pac'd.
Baldwin was mounted in the Saddle;
And Tom (for Hubert was not there)
Help'd Hilda up, with modest Care:
But still, there was some little Trouble,
The Mare, not us'd to carry double,
Would kick behind, by Starts and Fits;
Yet Hilda, still, with Courage sits,
And fast to Baldwin clinging, reaches
For Pommel, round his Leathern Breeches:
But gentle now, and she well plac'd,
Tom holds the Gate—and out they pac'd.
Thus well dispatch'd: Juetta sate,
With heavy sighs, in mournful State:
While Galfred griev'd, with watchful Eye
Did all her fretful Wants supply.
With heavy sighs, in mournful State:
While Galfred griev'd, with watchful Eye
Did all her fretful Wants supply.
The wasted Day began decline:
The Sun, with fainter Rays, did shine,
'Till, sinking down, with splendid Grace,
Beneath the Mountain hid his Face:
Sweet Philomel, upon the Spray,
Most sweetly mark'd the Close of Day:
The hooting Owl began to fly,
With sleepy Pace, along the Sky;
While leathern Bats, with dodging Flight,
Do usher in the Shades of Night:
Still Calm prevails: no Mist appear'd:
At Distance, Village Curs were heard,
The Croak of Frogs, the Clack of Mill,
And, on the Road, the Grinding Wheel.
The Sun, with fainter Rays, did shine,
'Till, sinking down, with splendid Grace,
Beneath the Mountain hid his Face:
Sweet Philomel, upon the Spray,
Most sweetly mark'd the Close of Day:
The hooting Owl began to fly,
With sleepy Pace, along the Sky;
While leathern Bats, with dodging Flight,
Do usher in the Shades of Night:
Still Calm prevails: no Mist appear'd:
At Distance, Village Curs were heard,
39
And, on the Road, the Grinding Wheel.
Juetta, now, was something willing,
To keep her little Strength, by Filling;
And, as the Time was fit for picking,
She order'd Maud to boil the Chicken:
But peevish still, with hard Complaints,
As having nothing—that she wants,
Poor Galfred vext, for thus delaying;
And Maud was rated—for her Staying;
At length—the Chicken brought, and eat,
A while they talk'd, awile they sate,
When finding shadowy Night come on,
And thinking best—to lie alone,
Because her Husband's Cough, and Jumbling
Might hinder Sleep, by Noise or Fumbling,
She order'd Rose—that Fire be made
In Hilda's Room—and make the Bed;
For well she knew, from Dartford, home,
'Till next Day Noon, she could not come;
And, as for Galfred, judging right
That one should sit with him at Night,
She order'd Maud to do that Duty,
The better fit—for want of Beauty:
(For Women, tho' devoutly zealous
To please their Husbands, still are jealous)
And with her Self propos'd to keep
Rose, to prevent Relapse in Sleep.
Thus order'd, up the Stairs they go,
At decent Hour, in comely Row,
Each one assisted, by the Aid
Of each their sev'ral Waiting Maid:
At Galfred's Door—Maud took the Light,
And Galfred bid his Chuck—Good Night.
To keep her little Strength, by Filling;
And, as the Time was fit for picking,
She order'd Maud to boil the Chicken:
But peevish still, with hard Complaints,
As having nothing—that she wants,
Poor Galfred vext, for thus delaying;
And Maud was rated—for her Staying;
At length—the Chicken brought, and eat,
A while they talk'd, awile they sate,
When finding shadowy Night come on,
And thinking best—to lie alone,
Because her Husband's Cough, and Jumbling
Might hinder Sleep, by Noise or Fumbling,
She order'd Rose—that Fire be made
In Hilda's Room—and make the Bed;
For well she knew, from Dartford, home,
'Till next Day Noon, she could not come;
And, as for Galfred, judging right
That one should sit with him at Night,
She order'd Maud to do that Duty,
The better fit—for want of Beauty:
(For Women, tho' devoutly zealous
To please their Husbands, still are jealous)
And with her Self propos'd to keep
Rose, to prevent Relapse in Sleep.
Thus order'd, up the Stairs they go,
At decent Hour, in comely Row,
Each one assisted, by the Aid
Of each their sev'ral Waiting Maid:
At Galfred's Door—Maud took the Light,
And Galfred bid his Chuck—Good Night.
The END of the SECOND CANTO.
| Galfred and Juletta | |