As once I rambled in the woods
    I chanced to spy amid the brake
    A huntsman ride his way beside
    A fair and passing tranquil lake;
    Though velvet bucks sped here and there,
    He let them scamper through the green--
    Not one smote he, but lustily
    He blew his horn--what could it mean?

    As on I strolled beside that lake,
    A pretty maid I chanced to see
    Fishing away for finny prey,
    Yet not a single one caught she;
    All round her boat the fishes leapt
    And gambolled to their hearts' content,
    Yet never a thing did the maid but sing--
    I wonder what on earth it meant.

    As later yet I roamed my way,
    A lovely steed neighed loud and long,
    And an empty boat sped all afloat
    Where sang a fishermaid her song;
    All underneath the prudent shade,
    Which yonder kindly willows threw,
    Together strayed a youth and maid--
    I can't explain it all, can you?

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