THE NEWCASTLE SIGNS.

Should the French in Newcastle but dare to appear, At each sign they would meet with indifferent cheer; From the Goat and the Hawk, from the Bell and the Waggon, And the Dog, they would skip, as St. George made the Dragon. The Billet, the Highlander, Cross Keys, and Sun, The Eagle and Ships too, would shew 'em some fun; The Three Kings and Unicorn, Bull's Head and Horse, Would prove, that the farther they went they'd fare worse. At the Black House, a strong-Arm, would lay ev'ry man on, And they'd quickly go off, if they got in the Cannon: The Nelson and Turk's Head their fears would increase, And they'd run from the Swan like a parcel of geese. At the York and the Cumberland, Cornwallis too, With our Fighting Cocks, sure they'd have plenty to do; The Nag's Head and Lions would cut such an evil, And the Angel would drive the whole crew to the devil. At the World, and the Fountain, the Bridge, Crown and Thistle, The Bee-Hive, and Tuns, for a drop they might whistle; With our Prince, or our Crown, should they dare interpose, They'd prick their French fingers well under the Rose. At the Half Moon, the Wheat Sheaf, and Old Barley-Mow, A sup's to be got—if they could but tell how; If they call'd at the Bull and the Tiger to ravage, As well as the Black Boy, they'd find 'em quite savage. At the Ark, and the Anchor, Pack Horse, and Blue Posts, And the Newmarket Inn, they would find but rough hosts; The Old Star and Garter, Cock, Anchor, and more, Would prove, like the Grapes, all most cursedly sour. The Lion and Lamb, Plough, and Old Robin Hood, With the Crane House, would check these delighters in blood; From the Butchers' Arms quick they'd be running away, And we all know that Shakespeare would shew 'em some play. At the White Hart, Three Bulls' Heads, the Old Dog and Duck, If they did not get thrash'd, they'd escape by good luck: At the Bird in Bush, Metters' Arms, Peacock, they'd fast, And our King's and Queen's Heads we'll defend till the last. May the sign of the King ever meet with respect, And our great Constitution each Briton protect; And may he who would humble our Old British Crown, Be hung on a sign-post till I take him down.