And felt full sure he need not weigh the thing; 80
That must be welcome! With a smiling face
He watch’d th’ accustom’d nod, and took his place.
“Well! you have news—I see it—Good, my friend,
No preface, Peter! Speak, man; I attend.”
“Then, sir, I’m told—nay, ’tis beyond dispute—
Our Burgess James is routed horse and foot;
He’ll not be seen; a clerk for him appears,
And their precautions testify their fears;
Before the week be ended you shall see,