As ever claim’d the meed of truth,
And, to reward such constancy,
Nature that meed allows.
But Old Dame Dowson could not bear
A Youth so brave—a Maid so fair.
The Granny Grey, with maxims grave
Oft to Annetta lessons gave:
And still the burthen of the Tale
Was, “Keep the wicked Men away,
“For should their wily arts prevail