Metrical tales, and other poems; - Electric Scotland

36 METEICAL TALES.
THE SALT MAKEE'S SONG.
Note,—The Savmier, or Salt Maker of the North of France, generally
drives about the country in a light cart, during two or three days a week,
delivering his salt. As the imposts are heavy and the competition keen,
his gains are very moderate ; but he is generally a jovial fellow, and
nearly always singing or talking encouragingly to his horse as he drives
along.
•"ET on, my horse ! get on, Brunow
Whatever makes your pace so slow ?
I'm sure you had your fill this morn
Of juicy hay and mealy corn.
Get on, my horse ! get on, Brunow
When evening comes there's rest for you;
Alas ! my cares are never through ;
How fast so ever I proceed.
There's some one urging greater speed.
Get on, my horse ! get on, Brunow !
The tax-collector called to-day.
And asked me when I meant to pay;
The baker, butcher, tailor too.
Declare their bills are overdue.
Get on, my horse! get on, Brunow !
My wife avers the parlour chairs
Are torn and worn beyond repairs
And for herself, she must confess,
She scarcely has a decent dress.
Get on, my horse! get on, Brunow !
This hat of mine, which once was new,
Has grown uncomely to the view
This coat, whose years can scarce be told,
Is far from pleasant to behold.
Get on, my horse! get on, Brunow !