An old Man's Joy.

The Children toppled on the green,

And bowl'd their fairings down the hill;

Richard with pride beheld the scene,

Nor could he for his life sit still.

A Father's uncheck'd feelings gave

A tenderness to all he said;

‘ My Boys, how proud am I to have

‘ My name thus round the Country spread!

‘ Through all my days I've labour'd hard,

‘ And could of pains and Crosses tell;

‘ But this is Labour's great reward,

‘ To meet ye thus, and see ye well.

‘ My good old Partner, when at home,

‘ Sometimes with wishes mingles tears;

‘ Goody, says I, let what wool come,

‘ We've nothing for them but our pray'rs.