The Stranger's Song

written by


« Reload image

O My trade it is the rarest one,
 Simple shepherds all-
  My trade is a sight to see;
  For my customers I tie, and take 'em up on high,
  And waft 'em to a far countree!

  My tools are but common ones,
 Simple shepherds all-
  My tools are no sight to see:
  A little hempen string, and a post whereon to swing,
  Are implements enough for me!

  To-morrow is my working day,
 Simple shepherds all-
  To-morrow is a working day for me:
  For the farmer's sheep is slain, and the lad who did it ta'en,
  And on his soul may God ha' mer-cy!

© Thomas Hardy