  A young stag in the brake was caught, And home with corded antlers brought. The lord was pleased: so was the clown. When he was tipped with half-a-crown. The stag was dragged before his wife; The gentle lady begged its life: "How sleek its skin! how specked like ermine! Sure never creature was more charming." At first within the court confined, He fled and hid from all mankind; Then, bolder grown, with mute amaze He at safe distance stood to gaze; Then munched the linen on the lines, And off a hood or whimple dines; Then steals my little master's bread, Then followed servants to be fed, Then poked his nose in fists for meat, And though repulsed would not retreat; Thrusts at them with his levelled horns, And man, that was his terror, scorns. How like unto the country maid, Who of a red-coat, first, afraid Will hide behind the door, to trace The magic of the martial lace; But soon before the door will stand, Return the jest and strike the hand; Then hangs with pride upon his arm,— For gallant soldiers bear a charm,— Then seeks to spread her conquering fame, For custom conquers fear and shame. |
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