The Cause Won

written by


« Reload image

Two neighbours furiously dispute;
A field--the subject of the suit.
Trivial the spot, yet such the rage
With which the combatants engage,
'Twere hard to tell who covets most
The prize--at whatsoever cost.
The pleadings swell.  Words still suffice:
No single word but has its price.
No term but yields some fair pretence
For novel and increased expense.
Defendant thus becomes a name,
Which he that bore it may disclaim,
Since both in one description blended,
Are plaintiffs--when the suit is ended.

© William Cowper