The Squire and the Parson

The squire and the parson fine set out one day so fair
To Noblethorpe they made their way, a proud and dignified pair
The squire to the parson "we must return when light
Upon this road there has been seen a highway man of the night."

The coach arrived then at the hall that stood so large and grand
Thirsty from the journey there strong wine they did demand
So wine they had and more besides, 'til laughter did resound
They didn't see the daylight fade as darkness crept around

Homeward bound the pair set out, less proud, less dignified
Bawdy songs there could be heard from the coach inside
Then came the order from within "Good coachman halt right here
For we have spied the highwayman there in the dark so near."

The courage they drank came to the fore
And each declared they'd fight
From both doors of the coach they flew and leapt into the night
Round the back they found the fiend with flailing fists they led
Tired and bleeding he gave up, into the night he fled

The coachman watched in disbelief the comical scene play out
The squire and the parson they knocked each other about
The two of them there in the dark, coats torn and eyes all black
Climbed up into the coach again both proud of their attack

Next morning down with the servants were squeals full of delight
The coachman stood recounting the scene he saw last night
At lunch the pair they boasted of the knocks that fiend he took
The butler swallowed his laughter and slyly winked at the cook