13, CROSS CHEAPING.
The shades of night were falling fast,
As through the ancient city passed,
A youth who scorned to pause or stop,
Until he reached that noted shop,
13, CROSS CHEAPING.
In happy homes he saw the light,
Of household fires gleam warm and bright;
He heeded not the cheerful coal,
But strode straight onward to his goal,
13, CROSS CHEAPING.
"Beware of rain," an old man said,
"Dark lowers the tempest overhead,"
The youth made quite a little speech,
"I fear no rain if once I reach
13, CROSS CHEAPING."
"Oh stay," a maiden said, "and rest;
Put not your strength to further test,"
A smile lurked in his bright blue eye,
And merrily he made reply:
"13, CROSS CHEAPING."
"Once safely there, I shall forget
My tired feet, and dread of wet;
Whilst buying where I've bought before;
Whilst choosing from that well-filled store,
13, CROSS CHEAPING."
"Their BOOTS have richly earned their fame;
Their SHOES have gained an envied name;
What matters mud, however thick,
When once your feet are shod by DICK,
13, CROSS CHEAPING."