But now I have finish'd my rhime,
And of you all must take my leave;
I would have you to leave off in time,
Or they will make your poor hearts to bleed.
[1: rogue or horse-thief]
[2: prowl about]
[3: well-dressed victim; walk]
[4: give signal to confederate]
[5: Notes]
[6: robbing]
[7: get you transported]
[8: steal; handkerchief]
[9: receiver of stolen property]
[10: house]
THE POTATO MAN [Notes]
[1775]
[from _The Ranelaugh Concert_...a choice collection of the newest
songs sung at all the public places of entertainment].
I
I am a saucy rolling blade, [1]
I fear not wet nor dry,
I keep a jack ass for my trade,
And thro' the streets do cry
_Chorus_. And they all rare potatoes be!
And they're, etc.