'Twas noon, in fact old Tom[1] had just rung out The mid-day hour. The crowd that hung about The doors of that once famous hostelrie, When 'neath the fostering sway of the Dupree,[2] Had almost gaped and gazed their utmost fill, Yet linger'd there, and gaped and wonder'd still; As when in passing some secluded square, I've seen a crowd of ragged urchins stare With all attention and uplifted gaze At a small theatre, covered with green baize, Where Punch performs, with most discordant squeak, His merry antics; now on gibbet's peak Hanging (the rogue) the constable on high; Now whopping Judy, whose most piteous cry Rings through the square and stops the passers by-- So did the crowd expectingly surround, Jostling with push and thrust and oaths profound, Gathering from every part, both near and far, The gate of Oxford's fast declining "Star." But what's the row? There's something to be done; It looks as if this shindy meant some fun, Having the _entrée_ of this famed hotel, We'll enter! "I say, Bob, just touch the bell." "Coming, sir, d'rectly." Well, Smith[3] what's the cause Of this tumultuous gathering and noise; What's in the wind? we're just from London come, Let's have the news! I'll bet it something rum." "Oh, Sirs, the Sheriff causes all the fuss! Excuse me, gents, I can't stay chattering thus;-- What shall I get ye? mutton chops for two? Or a grill'd fowl, or will some cutlets do? The cook's half-roasted--house is very full, The Judge is coming--you'll not find it dull." "Here are the cutlets and a pot of ale, And while you're eating, you shall hear the tale Of this High Sheriff!" "Who on earth is he? (This tap's not bad, just hand it o'er to me.") "Why, bless you, Sirs, 'tis Mr. Vanderstegen, But here we call him 'Van;' I just now seed him Dressing to go and bring the Judges in." "How does he look?" "Why, really, quite the thing-- Barring his flurry--which is not surprising; But bless my life! why here he's coming down Ready for starting! here! Jack, Dick, and Brown, Way for the Sheriff! Let the Sheriff pass!"