11

I never told the buried gold
Upon the hill-that lies-
I saw the sun-his plunder done
Crouch low to guard his prize.

He stood as near
As stood you here-
A pace had been between-
Did but a snake bisect the brake
My life had forfeit been.

That was a wondrous booty-
I hope 'twas honest gained.
Those were the fairest ingots
That ever kissed the spade!

Whether to keep the secret-
Whether to reveal-
Whether as I ponder
Kidd will sudden sail-

Could a shrewd advise me
We might e'en divide-
Should a shrewd betray me-
Atropos decide!