The Old Woman’s Courtship

Old woman, old woman, will you go a shearing?
“Speak a little louder sir, I’m rather hard of hearing.”

Old woman, old woman, are you good at weaving?
“Pray speak a little louder sir, my hearing is deceiving.”

Old woman, old woman, will you go a’ walking?
“Speak a little louder sir, or what’s the use of talking?”

Old woman, old woman, are you fond of spinning?
“Pray speak a little louder sir, I only see you grinning.”

Old woman, old woman, will you do my knitting?
“My hearing’s getting better now, come near to where I’m sitting.”

Old woman, old woman, shall I kiss you dearly?
“Oh, Lord have mercy on my soul, sir. Now I hear you clearly.”