I AM the bard known far and wide, br The travell'd rat-catcher beside; br A man most needful to this town, br So glorious through its old renown. br However many rats I see, br How many weasels there may be, br I cleanse the place from ev'ry one, br All needs must helter-skelter run. br br Sometimes the bard so full of cheer br As a child-catcher will appear, br Who e'en the wildest captive brings, br Whene'er his golden tales he sings. br However proud each boy in heart, br However much the maidens start, br I bid the chords sweet music make, br And all must follow in my wake. br br Sometimes the skillful bard ye view br In the form of maiden-catcher too; br For he no city enters e'er, br Without effecting wonders there. br However coy may be each maid, br However the women seem afraid, br Yet all will love-sick be ere long br To sound of magic lute and song.