William of Allerton Green

With a face full of grief, and a heart full of love, Poor William of Allerton Green, In the deepest recess of a neighbouring grove, By Robin, the woodman, was seen; His looks were intent on a murmuring rill, Which ran o'er the pebbles below, The flood from his eyes serv'd the streamlet to fill, Which sprang from the fountain of woe.

His Phaebe he'd miss'd a whole night and a day, They'd promis'd to meet at a wake; He fear'd that some phantom had led her astray. Which dances each night on the lake; But Robin, the woodman, now langh'd in his sleeve, Who well knew the cause of his tears; And, smiling, he said I'll your sorrows relieve, And soon put an end to your fears.

'Tis true, the poor thing had mistaken her way, I met her with grief in each eye, So, like a poor sheep that was going astray, She's pounded in safety hard by; Being all over sorrow, just like to yourself, And making e'en just such ado, I thought her a foolish young simpering elf, Because she was piping for you.

Young William jump'd up, all enraptur'd with joy, Said, where is my dearest delight? Now Robin cry'd don't you be jealous my boy, With me she has hous'd all the night; Between wife and myself we have kept her from harm, And caution'd her never to roam, You have nothing to do but to lend her your arm, And see the dear creature safe home.