The Spotted Cow

One morning in the month of May
As from my cot I strayed,
Just at the dawning of the day
I met a charming maid.
I met a charming maid.

"Good morning, fair maid! Whither," says I,
"So early? Tell me know."
The maid replied,"Kind sir," she cried,
"I've lost my spotted cow."

"No more complain, no longer mourn
Your cow is not lost, my dear.
I saw her down in yonder lawn,
Come, love, I'll show you where."

"I must confess you're very kind
I thank you, sir," said she,
"You will be sure she's there to find?"
"Come, sweetheart, go with me."

Into the grove we did repair
Across the flowery dell,
We hugged and kissed each other there
And love was all our tale.

Into the grove we spent the day
And thought it passed too soon.
At night we homeward went our way
And brightly shone the moon.

If I should cross yon flowery dell,
Or go to view the plough,
She comes and calls her gentle swain,
"I've lost my spotted cow."

From Wanton Seed, Purslow
APR99