A maiden did this tinker meet and to him boldly say
Oh sure my kettle hath much need, if you will pass my way
She took the tinker by the hand and led him to her door
Says she, my kettle I will show and you can clout it sure
For patching and plugging is his delight
He hammers away both by day and by night
Fair maid says he, your kettle's cracked,
The cause is plainly told
There hath so many nails been drove,
That mine own could not take hold