THE SKY LARK, &c, Song

Across the downs this morning, As by times I chanc'd to go, A shepherd lead his flock abroad, All white as driven snow, But one was most the shepherd's care, A lamb, so fleek, so plump, so fair; Its wondrous beauties in a word, To let you fairly know, 'Twas such as Nelly from the fire, Took off not long ago.

This lamb so blithe as midsummer, His frolick gambols play'd, And now of all the flock ahead, The pretty wanton stray'd. A wolf that watch'd with greedy eyes, Rush'd forth, and seiz'd the tender prize, The shepherd saw, and rais'd a stone, So round, so large, I vow, 'Twas like the cake that Nelly laid, Upon the shelf just now.

This monstrous stone, the shepherd slung: And well his aim he took Yet scarce the savage creature deign'd, Around to cast a look; But fled as swift, with footsteps light, As he who brought the wine to night. I try'd to stop the thief! but he Turn'd round in rage, good lack! So mad the lawyer scarce can be That's hid in yonder sack.