University of Virginia Library


126

Dialogue between Richard and Henry, Two Shepherds in Swaledale,

on the Death of his Late Majesty.

Richard came knitting o'er the Green,
With pensive Step, and thoughtful Mien:
'Twas Noon; and Neighbour Hal He spied,
A-dozing on the Dunghill Side.
Hal saw a Wonder in his Face—
“Prithee, Friend Richard, speak thy Case.
Hal, prick thy Ears; here's News anon;
“The King, the King is dead and gone.
“The King! quoth Hal—that's News apace—
“And, prithee, who shall have his Place?

127

“Our Dale, said Dick, has got but two for't;
“Either Sir George, or else the Stewart.
“Pray God, that neither raise my Rent!
Richard, quoth Hal, and I'm content.