Classic Poem

Poor Vestris, griev'd beyond all measure,
To have incurr'd so much displeasure,
Although a Frenchman, disconcerted,
And though lightheeled, yet heavy-hearted,
Begs humbly to inform his friends
Next first of April he intends
To take a boat and row right down
To Cuckold's Point from Richmond town,
And as he goes, alert and gay,
Leap all the bridges in his way.
The boat, borne downward with the tide,
Shall catch him safe on t'other side.
He humbly hopes by this expedient
To prove himself their most obedient,
(Which shall be always his endeavour),
And jump into the former favour.