Upon his back men ride with ease,
He carries them just where they please;
And though it should be many a mile,
He gets there in a little while.
With saddle on his back they sit,
And manage him with reins and bit,
The whip and spur they use also,
When they would have him faster go.
And be the weather cold or hot,
As they may wish he'll walk or trot;
Or if to make more haste they need,
Will gallop with the greatest speed.
When dead his shining skin they use,
As leather for our boots and shoes;
Alive or dead, then, thus we see
How useful still the horse must be.
THE DOG.
The cow, the sheep, the horse, have long,
Been made the subject of our song;
But there are many creatures yet,
Whose merits we must not forget.
And first the dog, so good to guard
His master's cottage, house, or yard,—
Dishonest men away to keep,
And guard us safely while we sleep.
For if at midnight, still and dark,
Strange steps he hears, with angry bark,
He bids his master wake and see,
If thieves or honest folks they be.
At home, abroad, obedient still,
His only guide his master's will;
Before his steps, or by his side,
He runs or walks with joy and pride.
He runs to fetch the stick or ball,
Returns obedient to the call;
Content and pleased if he but gains
A single pat for all his pains.