To see as the cattle is all safe and sound.

’Twas nigh three veeks ago, or perhaps rather more,

Ven vun morning, as usual, I unlocks the door,—

(Tho’ I ought to ha’ mentioned I alvays does lock it,

And buttons the key in my right breeches pocket)—

I opens the door, Marm, and there vas Brown Bess,

Your ladyship’s mare, in a horribul mess;

Reg’lar kivered all over vith sveat, foam, and lather,

Laying down in her stall—sich a sight for a father!

Vhile a saddle and bridle, as hung there kvite clean