I NEVER told the buried gold
Upon the hill that lies,
I saw the sun, his plunder done,
Crouch low to guard his prize.
He stood as near, as stood you here,
A pace had been between–
Did but a snake bisect the brake,
My life had forfeit been.

That was a wondrous booty,
I hope 'twas honest gained–
Those were the finest ingots
That ever kissed the spade.

Whether to keep the secret–
Whether to reveal–
Whether, while I ponder
Kidd may sudden sail–

Could a Shrewd advise me
We might e'en divide–
Should a Shrewd betray me–
"Atropos" decide!