Much wonder'd that the silly sheep had found
Such cause of terror in an empty sound,
So sweet to huntsman, gentleman, and hound.

MORAL.

Beware of desp’rate steps. The darkest day (Left till to-morrow) will have pass'd away.

THE

DOG AND THE WATER-LILY.

NO FABL E.

The noon was shady, and soft airs

Swept Ouse's silent tide,
When, scap'd from literary cares,

I wander'd on his side.

My spaniel, prettiest of his race,

And high in pedigree, (Two nymphs,' adorn’d with ev'ry grace,

That spaniel found for me)

Now wanton'd lost in flags and reeds,

Now starting into sight

Pursued the swallow o'er the meads

With scarce a slower flight.

It was the time when Ouse display'd

His lilies newly blown;
Their beauties I intent survey’d,

And one I wish'd my own.

With cane extended far I sought

To steer it close to land;
But still the prize, though nearly caught,

Escap'd my eager hand. .

Beau mark'd my unsuccessful pains

With fixt consid'rate face,

And puzzling sat his puppy brains

To comprehend the case.

But with a chirrup clear and strong,

Dispersing all his dream,
I thence withdrew, and follow'd long

The windings of the stream.

My ramble finish’d, I return'd.

Beau trotting far before
The floating wreath again discern’d,

And plunging left the shore.

I saw him with that lily cropp'd

Impatient swim to meet My quick approach, and soon he dropp'd The treasure at my

Charm’d with the sight, the world, I cried,

Shall hear of this thy deed, My dog shall mortify the pride

Of man's superior breed;

But, chief, myself I will enjoin,

Awake at duty's call,
To show a love as prompt as thine

To Him who gives me all.

John Gilpin's spouse said to her dear

Though wedded we have been

These twice ten tedious years, yet we

No holiday have seen.