The horse began to heave and fail
Beneath the double load.
The father’s mouth was white and stern,
But his eyes grew tender with long farewell.
He said: “Hold fast to your seat, Sweetheart,
And ride Old Jerry well!
“I must go back. Ride on to the river.
Over the ford and the long marsh ride,
Straight on to the town. And I’ll meet you, Sweetheart,
Somewhere on the other side.”