Shakspeare and His Times [Vol. 1 of 2] / Including the Biography of the Poet; criticisms on his genius and writings; a new chronology of his plays; a disquisition on the on the object of his sonnets; and a history of the manners, customs, and amusements, superstitions, poetry, and elegant literature of his age

by Nathan Drake

He that his flocks the earliest lamb should bring,

(As it fell out then, Rowland's charge to yield)

Always for that year was the shepherd's king.

And soon preparing for the shepherd's board,

Upon a green that curiously was squar'd,

With country cates being plentifully stor'd:

And 'gainst their coming handsomely prepar'd.

New whig, with water from the clearest stream,

Green plumbs, and wildings, cherries chief of feast,

Fresh cheese, and dowsets, curds, and clouted cream,