Classic Poem

Long time Plain Dealing in the haughty town
Wand'ring about, though in threadbare gown,
At last unanimously was cried down.

When almost starved, she to the country fled,
In hopes, though meanly she should there be fed,
And tumble nightly on a pea-straw bed.

But Knav'ry knowing her intent, took post,
And rumoured her approach through every coast,
Vowing his ruin that should be her host.

Frighted at this, each rustic shut his door,
Bid her be gone, and trouble him no more,
For he that entertained her must be poor.

At this grief seized her, grief too great to tell,
When weeping, sighing, fainting, down she fell,
While Knavery, laughing, rung her passing bell.