The Cotman Collection | 14

The Cotman Letters 1835-1837

Archive: SDK Sydney Decimus Kitson Archive
Reference Number: SDK/1/3/1/4
Page: p 21 recto


  • Description

    Poem entitled 'To the Gentle Didlers on the Norwich River' by F. W. Cotman (first 6 verses)

    Typed poem

    Date: undated

  • Transcription

    To the Gentle Didlers on the Norwich River.

    Thrice happy mortals! Gentle Didlers
    O knew ye but your happy fate!
    Sure none can justly call you idlers
    Didling early -- Didling late.

    Well may you pity Norwich weaver
    Who plies the loom in garret close;
    And, with his wife - he dare not leave her -
    Breathes once a week fresh air at Trowse.

    Your easy, pleasant, occupation
    Just stirs your blood, and gives you health,
    Oft vainly wished in lofty station,
    Not to be bought by sons of wealth.

    Kindly you're greeted by the mower,
    And cheered by every passing sail;
    And oft suspends his arm the sower,
    To bid the Gentle Didlers hail!

    You, near where anglers take their station
    Waiting a nibble or a bite
    Deepen and clear the navigation,
    And smile with pity on the night.

    In this your rural scene of duty
    Nature presents her charms to view;
    You cannot choose but mark her beauty,-
    Thorpe groves and meadows bloom for you.

Poem entitled 'To the Gentle Didlers on the Norwich River' by F. W. Cotman (first 6 verses)