The Poacher's Wife

by Eden Phillpotts

I ask the question far and near,

And answer comes as clear as clear:

For Titus Sim, he loved her well,

And nothing but death true love shall quell.

And therefore I do hope afore long

He will make good this humble song;

And no chap will be happier than Titus Sim

If Minnie Sweetland will live along with him.”

“There!” said Mr Beer. “Every rhyme out of my own head. An’ what d’you think of it?”

“’Tis very fine poetry, and true, which all poetry is not to my certain knowledge,” answered Titus. “I have chances to dip into gentlefolks’ books, and the nonsensical rhymes they have in ’em would much surprise you. But here’s rhyme and reason both, I’m sure. ’Tis a beautiful poem, an’ I should be very much obliged for a copy.”