“Not if the intent be serious,” I replied.
“In that case,” rejoined Trimbush, “here goes!” and in a subdued, melodious voice, he commenced his original song of
THE OLD HUNTING SQUIRE.
I’ll sing you a sporting song that was made by a sporting pate,
Of a fine old hunting Squire, who has a fine estate,
And who keeps his hounds and hunters at a liberal old rate,
And plenty gives to the poor and old who enter at his gate;
Like a fine old hunting Squire, one of the present day.
His custom is, when at the Meet, to welcome great and small,
And a hearty greeting gives he to friends and neighbours all;