Variants On The Text

[Variant 1:

1800.

The valley rings with mirth and joy; And, pleased to welcome in the May, From hill to hill the echoes fling Their liveliest roundelay. 1836.

The text of 1845 returns to that of 1800.]

[Variant 2:

1836.

It seems they have no work to do Or that their work is done. 1800.

Boys that have had no work to do, Or work that now is done. 1827.]

[Variant 3:

1805.

I'll run with you a race."--No more--1800.

We'll for this Whistle run a race." ... 1802.]

[Variant 4:

1836.

Said Walter then, "Your task is here, 'Twill keep you working half a year. 1800.

'Twill baffle you for half a year. 1827.]

[Variant 5:

1836.

Till you have cross'd where I shall cross, Say that you'll neither sleep nor eat." 1800.

"Now cross where I shall cross,--come on And follow me where I shall lead--" 1802.

"Cross, if you dare, where I shall cross-- Come on, and in my footsteps tread!" 1827.]

[Variant 6:

1827.

James proudly took him at his word, But did not like the feat. 1800.

... the deed. 1802.

The other took him at his word, 1805.]

[Variant 7:

1827.

... began ... 1800.]

[Variant 8:

1827.

... pale as any ghost, 1800.]

[Variant 9:

1827.

... he spies 1800.]

[Variant 10:

1836.

He drew it gently from the pool, 1800.]

[Variant 11:

1836.

Said they, "He's neither maim'd nor scarr'd"--1800.]

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