["The plea of the existence of such custom, or habit, or
practice of copying as is set up can no more be supported
when challenged than the highwayman's plea of the custom of
Hounslow Heath."--_Justice North's Judgment in the Copyright
Action "Walter_ v. _Steinkopff_."]
So "Stand and deliver!" will not _quite_ do
In the year eighteen hundred and ninety-two;
And if you are caught on the Queen's highway,
With a something for which you've omitted to pay,
No use to try putting in--under your breath--
The plea of the custom of Hounslow-Heath!
Thanks to the _Times_ and to Justice NORTH!
The highway--of-News--may be clearer henceforth
Of robber daring and footpad sly.
To stop a coach, or to fake a cly,
Boldly to lift or astutely sneak,
Will expose a prig to the bobby's tweak,
And he shall not shelter himself beneath
The plea of the custom of Hounslow Heath.
_Autolycus_ now must buy his wares,
And not with his neighbours go (_gratis_) shares.
"Thou shalt not steal--not even brains,"
Says Justice NORTH, and his rule remains.
Thanks to the Justice, thanks to the _Times_!
Plain new definitions of ancient crimes
Are needful now when robbers unsheath
The old plea of the custom of Hounslow Heath!
* * * * *