‘ Tis true,’ she said;‘ but here behold,
‘ And marvel at the course of Time;
‘ Though you and I are both grown old,
‘ This Tree is only in its prime!’
‘ Well, Goody, do n't stand preaching now;
‘ Folks do n't preach Sermons at a FAIR:
‘ We've rear'd Ten Boys and Girls you know;
‘ And I'll be bound they'll all be there.’
Now friendly nods and smiles had they,
From many a kind Fair-going face:
And many a pinch KATE gave away;
While RICHARD kept his usual pace.
At length arriv'd amidst the throng,
Grand-children bawling hem'd them round;
And dragg'd them by the skirts along
Where gingerbread bestrew'd the ground.