Now the widow scarce knew What on earth she should do, There was nothing, she thought, to prevent it; And although she had rather have been all alone, Than the state of her heart 'fore another to own, Still refusing he might think she meant it. And the chance would be gone, Which her hopes had upborne, For a twelvemonth and some few days more. So she said, "If you please, sir, I find on reflection, That I really have not got the slightest objection, But I could not be ready before; For a bit of a party we must have at night, As there's many I've promised I would then invite, Who, neglected, would feel very sore. I should next week have liked, but had rather a fear That with washing or baking it might interfere, So we'll make it the day you wished for." She had scarcely said this, When a good hearty kiss Flew plump on her lips ripe as cherry; While an arm round her waist At the moment was placed,-- She did not dislike it much very. Then the friar took leave, While the good people grieve That he of his meal was bereft; For he'd not been the least fed, Though in fancy he feasted (As that now was all that was left) On the banquet to come, When he'd surely make one Of the guests on the grand bridal day: When right good farm-house cheer, With prime ale and strong beer, And proof whisky, would make all hearts gay. * * * * * _CHAPTER THE FIFTH._ 'Twas a day of days, And birds to its praise Their very best lays Sung out. While the sheep and cows, Who their carols rouse O'er the meadows, browse About. Not a cloud was seen The bright sun between And the pastures green, When forth The good widow crept, Who had scarcely slept, Though 'twas bright thoughts kept Sleep off. She was up with the sun, As there's much to be done, And great numbers of things to provide For the grand bridal meal (Ere her fate she may seal), But in showing her skill feels much pride. There's the butter to make, All the new bread to bake, And a very large plum-cake beside; While she'd think with much dread She's not properly wed If aught ill to that cake should betide. Yea, she has quite a doubt If a marriage without Would be legal, if lawyers it tried.