"Full many a toy had he to sell,
And caps of scarlet dye;
And such things as he knew full well
Would please the native's eye.
"But as he travelled through the woods
He longed to have a nap,
And opening there his pack of goods,
Took out a scarlet cap,
"And drew it on his head, thereby
To shield him from the sun;
Then soundly slept, nor thought an eye
Had seen what he had done.
"But many a monkey dwelling there,
Though hidden from his eyes,
Having well watched the whole affair,
Now longed to win a prize.
"And while he slept each one did seize
A cap to deck his brows;
Then climbing up the highest trees,
Sat chattering on the boughs.
"The sailor waked, his caps were gone,
And loud and long he grieves,
Till, looking up with heart forlorn,
He spied at once the thieves.
"With cap of red upon each head
Full fifty faces grim,
The sailor sees amid the trees,
With all eyes fixed on him.
"He brandished quick a mighty stick,
But could not reach their bower,
Nor could he stone, for every one
Was far beyond his power.
"'Alas!' he thought, 'I've safely brought
My caps far o'er the seas;
But could not guess it was to dress
Such little rogues as these.'
"Then quickly down he threw his own,
And loud in anger cried,
'Take this one too, you thievish crew,
Since you have all beside.
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