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I met a King this afternoon!
He had not on a Crown indeed,
A little Palmleaf Hat was all
And he was barefoot, I'm afraid!

But sure I am he Ermine wore
Beneath his faded Jacket's blue
And sure I am, the crest he bore
Within that Jacket's pocket too!

For 'twas too stately for an Earl
A Marquis would not go so grand!
'Twas possibly a Czar petite
A Pope, or something of that kind!

If I must tell you, of a Horse
My freckled Monarch held the rein
Doubtless an estimable Beast
But not at all disposed to run!

And such a wagon! While I live
Dare I presume to see
Another such a vehicle
As then transported me!
Two other ragged Princes
His royal state partook!
Doubtless the first excursion
These sovereigns ever took!

I question if the Royal Coach
Round which the Footmen wait
Has the significance, on high
Of this Barefoot Estate!