Tax Avoidance Strategy
Tonight the tide is in full flood.
The moon provides sufficient light.
For us to unload smuggled goods.
Which must be done before daylight.
The excise men are fat too wise.
To brave the dangers of the night
To try and take us by surprise.
They much prefer the broad daylight.
We risk our life and liberty.
Just as our forbears used to do.
Braving the perils of the sea
Importing luxuries for you.
Although the government will try.
The will not stop free enterprise.
The people want what we supply.
And are prepared to close their eyes.
To pack horses moving at night.
That's how we move our contraband.
All safely stored before daylight
In hiding places well in land.
The excise men can poke and pry.
Ask questions to their hearts content.
But local customs still apply.
Nobody helps the government.
We're local men and we are free.
The Magistrates are local too.
And they enjoy their French brandy.
Free from the taxes which are due.
So raise your glass and drink a toast.
To honest Cornish sailor men.
Who land their cargoes on the coast.
Then fill your empty glass again.
And curse the men in parliament.
Who pass laws which they can't enforce.
Against our will without consent.
No free man will ever endorse.
Where there's demand there'll be supply.
That is a universal law.
With which all traders must comply.
This law will last for evermore.
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poem by Ivor Or Ivor.e Hogg
Added by Poetry Lover
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