Better Fed Than Taught; or, the Clown's Retort on the Parson

Upon some hasty errand Tom was sent, And met his parish-curate as he went; But, just like what he was, a sorry clown, It seems be pass'd him with a cover'd crown. The gown-man stopp'd; and, turning, sternly said— "I doubt, my lad, you're far worse taught than fed!"— "Why, aye!" says Tom, still jogging on, "that's true: Thank God, he feeds me! but I'm taught by you."