ImetaKingthisafternoon!

I met a King this afternoon!

He had not on a Crown indeed,

A little Palmleaf Hat was all,

And he was barefoot, Im afraid!

But sure I am he Ermine wore

Beneath his faded Jackets blue --

And sure I am, the crest he bore

Within that Jackets pocket too!

For twas too stately for an Earl --

A Marquis would not go so grand!

Twas possibly a Czar petite --

A Pope, or something of that kind!

If I must tell you, of a Horse

My freckled Monarch held the rein --

Doubtless an estimable Beast,

But not at all disposed to run!

And such a wagon! While I live

Dare I presume to see

Another such a vehicle

As then transported me!

Two other ragged Princes

His royal state partook!

Doubtless the first excursion

These sovereigns ever took!

I question if the Royal Coach

Round which the Footmen wait

Has the significance, on high,

Of this Barefoot Estate!