Mine host then had his gun and dog, the fox or hare could track,
And in his pouch when on the chase had malmsey, ale, or sack,
The fine, &c.
You might then play a game at cards, could sing and dance at ease,
Nor heeded an informer’s dread, for such vile knaves displease;
And men could enjoy themselves, and might their fancies please,
Nor could the taxman come as now, the landlord’s purse to squeeze.
The fine, &c.
You ne’er heard of excisemen then, and every house was free;
Nor paltry base informing men that seek for fine and fee;