The little servingmaid

Preserve us from fire and thunder,

Thunder races like a bird,

If it’s the Lord who brings it on

Blest be the damages.

If it’s the devil who brings it on

Make it go away at the trot.

Preserve us from sores and spots,

From plague and leprosy.

If it’s for my penance you send it,

Lord, leave it to me, thanks.

If it’s the devil who brings it on

Make it go away at the trot.

Goiter, goiter out from your bag,

Out from my neck and head!

Saint Elmo’s fire, Saint Guy’s dance,

If it’s the devil who brings it on

My God make it go from hence.

Make me to grow up quickly

And give me a good husband

Who’s not too big a drunkard

And doesn’t beat me every night.

Max Jacob