But still he seem'd to carry weight, For all might see the bottle-necks Still dangling at his waist. Thus all through merry Islington These gambols he did play, Until he came unto the Wash Of Edmonton so gay. And there he threw the wash about On both sides of the way, Just like unto a trundling mop, Or a wild goose at play. At Edmonton, his loving wife From the balcony spied Her tender husband, wondering much To see how he did ride. "Stop, stop, John Gilpin !—here's the house!" Away went Gilpin, out of breath, His horse at last stood still. The calender, amazed to see His neighbour in such trim, Laid down his pipe, flew to the gate, And thus accosted him : "What news? what news? your tidings tell, Tell me you must and shall Say why bareheaded you are come, Or why you come at all?" Now Gilpin had a pleasant wit, And thus unto the calender In merry guise he spoke : "I came because your horse would come; And, if I well forbode, My hat and wig will soon be here— They are upon the road." The calender, right glad to find His friend in merry pin, Returned him not a single word, But to the house went in; M Whence straight he came with hat and wig, A wig that flow'd behind; A hat not much the worse for wear Each comely in its kind. He held them up, and, in his turn, "My head is twice as big as yours, "But let me scrape the dirt away That hangs upon your face; And stop and eat, for well you may Be in a hungry case." Said John, "It is my wedding-day ; So, turning to his horse, he said, "I am in haste to dine; 'Twas for your pleasure you came here— You shall go back for mine." Ah, luckless speech, and bootless boast Did sing most loud and clear; |