Doubtless my readers all have heard
Of the "wonderful one-horse shay " That "went to pieces all at once" On the terrible earthquake-day.
But did they ever think of the horse, Or mourn the loss of him,— The "ewe-necked bay" (who drew the "shay"), So full of life and vim?
He was a wonderful nag, I'm told, In spite of his old "rat-tail;" And, though he always minded the rein, He laughed at the snow and hail.
He had the finest stable in town, With plenty of oats and hay; And to the parson's oft "Hud-dup" He never would answer neigh.
To the parson's shay he was ever true, Though her other felloes were tired: To live and die with his fiancée Was all that his heart desired.
He was much attached to his ancient mate; So the parson "hitched them together;" And, when they went on their bridle tour, His heart was light as a feather.
We all remember her awful fate, On that sad November day, When nothing remained but a heap of trash, That once was a beautiful shay.
Oh! what could stir-up the equine breast
Like this fearful, harrowing blow. Which put a check on his happiness, And filled his heart with w(h)oa.
As he wheeled about, a shaft of pain
Entered his faithful breast, As he there beheld the sad remains Of her whom he loved the best.
With a sudden bound and fearful snort, He sped away like the wind; And a fact most queer I'll mention here, — No traces were left behind.