SONG XXIII. Piquet

After breakfast, says Nancy, well what shall we do? Will you try me again and our party renew? The girl was inviting, the morning was wet, So I stay'd at her challenge, the game of piquet.

All matters adjusted, the conquest we try, I went out strong in hand and my courage was high, Come on my dear girl, it is well we are met, I'll give you enough of your game at piquet.

I defy you says she; 'tis not boasting will win, So give me, my dear, what I am to take in; Then she laid down her point, mine against it I set, She allow'd it was good at this game of piquer.

But quint and quartorze too she reckoned away, I could hold no such thing, so desir'd her to play; And the hussy so play'd I was soon in her debt, Both laugh'd at and lurch'd at this game of piquet.

Well my lad never mind when your courage will rise You shall have your revenge she jeeringly cries: And as long as I found I had something to bet, I attack'd her again at this game of piquet.

But each effort I made still the case was the same, Till no stakes I could raise, I then left off the game, For the player, believe me, no credit will get, Who offers unfurnish'd to play at piquet.

Yet, so sweet is the game my fond sancy pursues I'll never decline it tho certain to loose; But morn, noon or night, take the challenge up yet And sport with my Nancy at charming piquet.