apprentice to master

you'll have your
chance but first
make sure you're
ready

that'll be
three to twelve years
depending

each master
can have
three apprentices
and his son

if you're an apprentice
don't expect too much
- leftover food
- a few knocks here and there
- a cold gable to sleep under
but be patient
your time will come
training is free

once apprenticed
don't change your mind
your master owns you
sleek away
they'll drag you back

for the apprentice
no moment
is his own
less it be a holiday

have faith in the master
for now he's your father
he'll stir you away
from evil
maybe even let you
marry his daughter

once a hired worker
life is better but
not easy
you've got to find
employment
here or there
they'll work you from
five to seven
if it's summer
longer nights
mean more rest

if you wish to be
a real master
then save your money
it's a hearty fee

but when your ready
come to us
here is what we'll
ask you:
a product finer than fine
to show us
what your made of

once satisfied
then soon there after
we'll admit you
but not before
a ceremony
sacred and pompous
we'll initiate you.

[Loosely based on a passage in Life on a Mediaeval Barony by W. S. Davis.]