Derrick's Jests or, The Wits Chronicle. Containing A pleasing Variety of Repartees, Puns, Bon-Mots, and other Species of Wit and Humour, Which passed between Samuel Derrick ... and other Persons distinguished for their Wit and Humour. Also A Collection of Poetical Pieces on Various Subjects, By Mr. Derrick and Others. Dedicated to the Public |
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Inscribed on a Column erected on a Piece of Land that had been often bought and sold.
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 | Derrick's Jests |  |
Inscribed on a Column erected on a Piece of Land that had been often bought and sold.
I, whom thou seest begirt with tow'ring oaks,Was once the property of John o'Nokes;
On him prosperity no longer smiles,—
And now I feed the flocks of John o'Stiles.
My former master called me by his name;
My present owner fondly does the same;
While I, alike unworthy of their cares,
Quick pass to captors, purchasers, or heirs:
Let no one henceforth take me for his own,
For Fortune! Fortune! I am thine alone.
| Derrick's Jests | |