I seldom am a welcome guest;

But don’t be captious, friend, at least:

I little thought you’d still be able

To stump about your farm and stable;

Your years have run to a great length,

I wish you joy tho’ of your strength.”

“Hold,” says the farmer, “not so fast,

I have been lame these four years past.”

“And no great wonder,” Death replies,

“However you still keep your eyes,