Discourse on past Days.

‘ Tis true,’ she said;‘ but here behold,

‘ And marvel at the course of Time;

‘ Though you and I are both grown old,

‘ This Tree is only in its prime!’

‘ Well, Goody, do n't stand preaching now;

‘ Folks do n't preach Sermons at a FAIR:

‘ We've rear'd Ten Boys and Girls you know;

‘ And I'll be bound they'll all be there.’

Now friendly nods and smiles had they,

From many a kind Fair-going face:

And many a pinch KATE gave away;

While RICHARD kept his usual pace.

At length arriv'd amidst the throng,

Grand-children bawling hem'd them round;

And dragg'd them by the skirts along

Where gingerbread bestrew'd the ground.