No More Learning

Now you'll suppose that Peter Bell
Felt small temptation here to tarry,
And so it was,--but I must add,
His heart was not a little glad
When he was out of the old quarry. ]


[Variant 32:

1827.

Across that . . . 1819. ]


[Variant 33:

1836.

And now he is among the trees; 1819. ]


[Variant 34:

"No doubt I'm founder'd in these woods--
For once," quoth he, "I will be wise,
With better speed I'll back again--
And, lest the journey should prove vain,
Will take yon Ass, my lawful prize! "

Off Peter hied,--"A comely beast!
Though not so plump as he might be;
My honest friend, with such a platter,
You should have been a little fatter,
But come, Sir, come with me! " 1819.

(The first of these stanzas was omitted in 1827 and afterwards;
the second was withdrawn in 1820. )]


[Variant 35:

1836.

But first doth Peter deem it fit
To spy about him far and near; 1819.
"A prize," cried Peter, stepping back
To spy . . . 1827. ]


[Variant 36:

1827.

. . . Ass's back, . . . 1819. ]


[Variant 37:

1836.

With ready heel the creature's side; 1819.

With ready heel his shaggy side; 1827. ]


[Variant 38: In the editions of 1819 to 1832 only.