At their request
Dress them proper in Sunday best
It might be fine black lace
With white embroidered trim
High collar starched stiff
Appropriate for this solemn occasion
If too poor to make
Or buy a new outfit
Friends townsfolk or even the Sheriff
Might provide the clothes
Advertise this auspicious event
Of justice heaven sent
Expect a large crowd jostling
For a clear-sighted view
Today no tree branch will do
Or cart’s rear end
Sit them side-saddle in their fancy attire
As befits their female charm
Use a good hemp rope
To caress and adorn the neck
Pull it tight and let them drop quick
To flounder and flap about
What crimes got them here
Besides murder – witchcraft arson
Concealing a birth
Adultery or stealing a shoe
Dress them proper in Sunday best
It might be fine black lace
With white embroidered trim
High collar starched stiff
Appropriate for this solemn occasion
If too poor to make
Or buy a new outfit
Friends townsfolk or even the Sheriff
Might provide the clothes
Advertise this auspicious event
Of justice heaven sent
Expect a large crowd jostling
For a clear-sighted view
Today no tree branch will do
Or cart’s rear end
Sit them side-saddle in their fancy attire
As befits their female charm
Use a good hemp rope
To caress and adorn the neck
Pull it tight and let them drop quick
To flounder and flap about
What crimes got them here
Besides murder – witchcraft arson
Concealing a birth
Adultery or stealing a shoe
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