The old woman's courtship

Old woman, old woman, will you go a-shearing?

“Speak a little louder sir, I'm rather hard of hearing.”

Old woman, old woman, are you good at weaving?

“Pray speak a little louder sir, my hearing is deceiving.”

Old woman, old woman, will you go a-walking?

“Speak a little louder sir, or what's the use of talking?”

Old woman, old woman, are you fond of spinning?

“Pray speak a little louder sir, I only see you grinning.”

Old woman, old woman, will you do my knitting?

“My hearing's getting better now, come near to where I'm sitting.”

Old woman, old woman, shall I kiss you dearly?

“Oh, Lord have mercy on my soul, sir. Now I hear you clearly.”