In Man's Most Dark Extremity Oft Succour

Caution Comes Too Late When We Are In The Midst Of Evils.

It Is The Privilege Of Tale-tellers To Open Their Story In An Inn, The Free Rendezvous Of All Travellers, And Where The Humour Of Each Displays Itself, Without Ceremony Or Restraint.

'tis An Old Tale, And Often Told; But Did My Fate And Wish Agree, Ne'er Had Been Read, In Story Old, Of Maiden True Betray'd For Gold, That Loved, Or Was Avenged, Like Me!

Those Who Are Too Idle To Read, Save For The Purpose Of Amusement, May In These Works Acquire Some Acquaintance With History, Which, However Inaccurate, Is Better Than None.

And Children Know, Instinctive Taught, The Friend And Foe.