The Tamed Fawn.

        A young stag in the brake was caught,
        And home with corded antlers brought.
        The lord was pleased: so was the clown.
        When he was tipped with half-a-crown.
        The stag was dragged before his wife;
        The gentle lady begged its life:
        "How sleek its skin! how specked like ermine!
        Sure never creature was more charming."

        At first within the court confined,
        He fled and hid from all mankind;
        Then, bolder grown, with mute amaze
        He at safe distance stood to gaze;
        Then munched the linen on the lines,
        And off a hood or whimple dines;
        Then steals my little master's bread,
        Then followed servants to be fed,
        Then poked his nose in fists for meat,
        And though repulsed would not retreat;
        Thrusts at them with his levelled horns,
        And man, that was his terror, scorns.

        How like unto the country maid,
        Who of a red-coat, first, afraid
        Will hide behind the door, to trace
        The magic of the martial lace;
        But soon before the door will stand,
        Return the jest and strike the hand;
        Then hangs with pride upon his arm, -
        For gallant soldiers bear a charm, -
        Then seeks to spread her conquering fame,
        For custom conquers fear and shame.