et it was counted no crime.

The grocer's chief servant brought sugar,
And out of his leather pocket he pulled,
And culled some pound and a half;
For which he was suffered to smack her
That was his sweetheart, and would not depart,
But turned and lick'd the calf.
He rung her, and he flung her,
He kissed her, and he swung her,
And yet she did nothing but laugh.

Thus would he sing about cities and towns, and when any one called him, he
would change his shape, and go laughing _ho, ho, hoh!_ For his humours of
begging he used this song, to the tune of _The Jovial Tinker_[15].

Good people of this mansion,
Unto the poor be pleased
To do some good, and give some food,
That hunger may be eased.
My limbs with fire are burned,
My goods and lands defaced;
Of wife and child I am beguiled,
So much am I debased.
Oh, give the poor some bread, cheese, or butter,
Bacon, hemp, or flax;
Some pudding bring, or other thing:
My need doth make me ax[16].

I am no common beggar,
Nor am I skilled in canting:
You ne'er shall see a wench with me,
Such tricks in me are wanting.
I curse not if you give not,
But still I pray and bless you,
Still wishing joy, and that annoy
May never more possess you.
Oh, give the poor some bread, cheese or butter,
Bacon, hemp or flax;
Some pudding bring, or other thing,
My need doth make me ax.

When any came to relieve him, then would he change himself into some other
shape, and run laughing, _ho, ho, hoh!_ Then would he shape himself like to
a singing man; and at men's windows and doors sing civil and virtuous
songs, one of which I will sing to the tune of _Broom_[17].

If thou wilt lead a blest and happy life,
I will describe the perfect way:
First must thou shun all cause of mortal strife,
Against thy lusts continually to pray.
Attend unto God's word:
Great comfort 'twill afford;
'Twill keep thee from discord.
Then trust in God, the Lord,
for ever,
for ever;
And see in this thou persever.

So soon as day appeareth in the east
Give thanks to him, and mercy crave;
So in this life thou shalt be surely blest,
And mercy shalt thou find in grave.
The conscience that is clear
No horror doth it fear;
'Tis void of mortal care,
And never doth despair;
but ever,
bu