I got my learning
In watching my sheep.
One of the favorite ruses is that by which the shepherd maid induces the gallant to let her go, on some frivolous excuse and a promise to return, and then mocks him for his credulity. A similar jest, with the proverb that when you hold a quail in hand you should pluck it, is very common in French folk-song, as, indeed, in that of all nations. This is one of the Poitevin versions:—
THE SHEPHERDESS AND THE GENTLEMAN.
It was a gentleman returning from the army,
Upon the road he met a shepherd maid;
He dismounted quickly, and went to sit beside her.
Cunning was the maid, and wept as if afraid.