66 THE OLD MARE'S STORY. 



And I ! Yes, I feel it, their true hearts are beating 

 In time to the strokes of my stride as I fly. 

 Her arms are around him, I hear the sweet greeting 

 He gives her. and know there's a light in his eye. 



Ten miles ! they are light, and the sands are good riding ; 

 but still, it's an effort with two on your back. 

 On, onward we go, and on, on we are striding, 

 The blood of old Stockwell still tells on the track. 



On, on, yes, I know it, their lives are depending 

 ( )n me, the dumb steed, I'll be true to the end. 

 I'll make a game effort, I know I'm defending 

 The right ; yes, at least I'll be counted a friend. 



On, on to the hamlet, the grey dawn is breaking 

 O'er the church where the marriage is quietly read. 

 The good ship is anchored, e'en now she is shaking 

 Her sails to the breeze that springs up overhead. 



Away o'er the waters the good ship is sailing, 



Away from a lifetime of trouble and care. 



See now '. how the sailors are grouped — they are hailing 



" Three cheers for the chestnut, three cheers for the mare." 



And now I have told you the whole of my story 

 I'm glad you are pleased, it is pleasant to tell. 

 There's a touch of romance and a flavour of glory. 

 But here comes the man with the corn, through the del'. 



