The Diverting History of John Gilpin

John Gilpin is a respectable London tradesman, train-band captain, and devoted husband whose twentieth wedding anniversary promises a long-awaited holiday. With his wife, children, sister, and niece packed into a chaise, he plans to follow on horseback, carrying their own wine and making the outing both festive and economical.

But a few last-minute customers, a forgotten pair of bottles, and an unexpectedly lively horse turn the leisurely excursion into a spectacular chase. Gilpin loses control as his mount gathers speed, while his hat, wig, cloak, and carefully secured refreshments disappear along the road. Crowds cheer, dogs bark, turnpike gates fly open, and the unfortunate rider becomes an instant public sensation. Told in nimble, rhyming verse with a wonderfully escalating sense of absurdity, this comic classic is an entertaining listen for anyone who enjoys lively storytelling, memorable characters, and mishaps that grow more outrageous with every mile.