Tho’ first I thought it right to lay before ye,

By way of preface, or of introduction,

Or, if you please, a smattering of instruction;

Go as you will, no matter when, or where,

You’re sure to see a Johnny Newcome there.

Now this same Grocer was a man of weight,

Eat turtle soup, and talked of Church and State,—

For twenty years had bustled well through life,

Blest with one son by Doll his loving Wife:

The Youth, a lankey, awkward, shuffling Blade,