But once, when Edward had begun
To cast his clothes aside,
Round him his dog would anxious run,
And much to check him tried.

So much, that had dumb Fido said
"Avoid the stream to day!"
Those words could scarce have plainer made
What duty wish'd to say.

Edward, too eager to enjoy
The sport, where danger lay,
Scolds him for gestures, that annoy,
And beats his guard away:

And naked now, and dreaming not
How cruel was that blow,
He hurries to the lofty spot,
In haste to plunge below,

His faithful friend, with quicker pace,
And now with silent tongue,
Out-stript his master in the race,
And swift before him sprung.

Heaven! how the heart of Edward swell'd
Upon the river's brink,
When his brave guardian he beheld
A glorious victim sink!