Thomas Hardy — The Strangers Song

O my trade it is the rarest one, Simple shepherds all -        &nbsp       &nbsp My trade is a sight to see; For my customers I tie, and take 'em up on high,        &nbsp And waft 'em to a far countree! My tools are but common ones,        &nbsp       &nbsp       &nbsp Simple shepherds all -        &nbsp       &nbsp My tools are no sight to see: A little hempen string, and a post whereon to swing,        &nbsp Are implements enough for me! To-morrow is my working day,        &nbsp       &nbsp       &nbsp Simple shepherds all -        &nbsp       &nbsp To-morrow is a working day for me: For the farmer's sheep is slain, and the lad who did it ta'en,        &nbsp And on his soul may God ha' mer-cy!