In the heart of Wiltshire, a tale as intriguing as it is amusing has been woven through the years, captivating those who hear it. This narrative, though rooted in the familiar, branches into countless variations, each adding its own unique flavour. At its core, the story celebrates the cunning and wit of the Wiltshire locals, affectionately known as moonrakers.

The saga unfolds with two men from Wiltshire, cleverly engaged in the illicit brandy trade. In a bid to elude the keen eyes of the law, they conceal a barrel of their smuggled spirits within the depths of a serene pond. However, their scheme takes an unexpected turn when they are discovered under the cloak of night, attempting to retrieve their hidden treasure.

Caught red-handed, they concoct a tale as ludicrous as it is ingenious. They claim they are merely trying to scoop up the moon's reflection, mistaking it for a wheel of cheese floating in the pond. The officers, tickled by the supposed naivety of these rustic fellows, decide to leave them to their impossible task, thus unwittingly allowing the smugglers to carry on with their real objective.

This anecdote serves as a testament to the cleverness often underestimated in those who speak with the earthy lilt of the Wiltshire dialect. Proudly embracing the title of moonrakers, the people of Wiltshire hold this story close, a symbol of their ingenuity and spirit.

The origins of this tale are shrouded in mystery, with some attributing it to the 18th century—a time when smuggling was as common as the tales that accompanied it. Yet, the precise location of the pond, the true setting of this legendary exploit, remains a subject of debate. Various towns and villages across Wiltshire, each with its own pond, lay claim to this heritage, with Devizes and the village of Bishop's Cannings among the most frequently mentioned.

The authenticity of the moonrakers' story, like many legends, is uncertain. Edward Slow's verses from 1894 offer a glimpse into the story's evolution over time, yet even these words are tinged with the passage of years and the colour of imagination.

What remains undeniable is the story's enduring appeal, and its ability to adapt and thrive through generations. For in the world of legends, the truth is less important than the message, and the tale of the moonrakers continues to enchant, a timeless reminder of wit triumphing over adversity. 
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The Moonrakers (Down Deep Variation)

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