The Boys And The Apple-Tree

As William and Thomas were walking one day,

They came by a fine orchard's side:

They would rather eat apples than spell, read, or play,

And Thomas to William then cried:

"O brother, look yonder! what clusters hang there!

I'll try and climb over the wall:

I must have an apple; I will have a pear;

Although it should cost me a fall!"

Said William to Thomas, "To steal is a sin,

Mamma has oft told this to thee:

I never have stolen, nor will I begin,

So the apples may hang on the tree. "

"You are a good boy, as you ever have been,"

Said Thomas, "let's walk on, my lad:

We'll call on our schoolfellow, Benjamin Green,

Who to see us I know will be glad.