J} '//AT BECAME OF THE COACHMEN 321 



start sober, l)ut the horses had to he changed on 

 the way anywhere hut at jnihlic-houses, if it was 

 desired that he shoiihl end his journey in the 

 same condition : — 



Those who excel, whatever line 'tis in, 



Deserve applause, anil ought applause to win. 



Pointer in coachmanship superior shone ; 



His whip his sceptre, and his box his throne. 



Not skilled alone the fiery steeds to guide, 



For them in sickness and in health provide, 



He, by a thousand nice mlnutioi^ knew 



To win the restive, and the fierce subdue. 



As man and master, punctual and approved : 



By those who knew him best, the best beloved. 



Many's the time and oft, o'er Ashdown's plain, 



'Mid show'rs of driving snow and pelting rain ; 



When hurricanes bow'd down the lofty grove, 



When all was slough beneath and storms above ; 



And oft, when glowing skies cheer'd all the scene 



And threw o'er Sussex plains a joy serene ; 



When now the anecdote, and now the song 



Beguil'd the moments as we roU'd along ; 



Snug at his elbow have I mark'd his skill 



To rein the courser and to guide the wheel ; 



And had he Phaeton's proud task begun, 



To drive the rapid chariot of the sun, 



Safe through its coiu-se the Haminsr car had run. 



VOL. II. 21 



