A Cheshire man sailed into Spain
To trade for merchandise;
When he arrived from the main
A Spaniard him espies,
Who said: "You English rogue, look here!
What fruits and spices fine
Our land produces twice a year!
Thou hast not such in thine!"
The Cheshire man ran to his hold,
And fetched a Cheshire cheese,
And said: "Look here, you dog, behold,
We have such fruits as these!
"Your fruits are ripe but twice a year,
As you yourself do say;
But such as I present you here,
Our land brings twice a day."
The Spaniard in a passion flew,
And his rapier took in hand;
The Cheshire man kicked up his heels,
Saying: "Thou art at my command."
So never let a Spaniard boast
While Cheshire men abound,
Lest they should teach him, to his cost,
To dance a Cheshire round.