BALLAD. (Behold the fairies' jocund band)

Behold the fairies' jocund band, Who firm, though low of stature, 'Gainst giant vice shall make a stand, Portraying human nature.

We've characters of every mould, All tempers, forms, and sizes, The grave, the gay, the young, the old, Hid under quaint disguises.

They hey for the faries, &c.

We have a priest who never swears, But who is always ready With money, or advice, or prayers, To help the poor and needy.

They hey for the fairies, &c.

A man and wife who both on crutch Are now oblig'd to hobble, Who fifty years, or near as much, Have never had a squabble.

They hey for the faries, &c.

A magistrate upright and wife, To whom no bribe is given, And who before two charming eyes Can hold the balance even.

They hey for the faries, &c.

A learn'd physician of great skill, All cures, like Galen, pat in, Who never does his patients kill, Take fees, or jabber latin.

They hey for the fairies, &c.

A country squire who hates the smell Of Stingo and October; A modern poet who can spell, And a musician sober.

They hey for the faries, &c.

Away then, comrades, beat to arms, Display your sportful banners, Strike hard at vice, explore false charms, And catch the living manners.

They hey for the faries, &c.