 The metaphor continues throughout the poem,

The "stable" might represent the Church office which Dunbar often pleaded for.He insists that, although court life has worn him down and made him "an over-burdened mule", he would be "spurred-on in every joint" if he could wear "trappings" at Yule.Dunbar concludes by recording that, although he may not be treated like "chargers in silk trappings" he would be content with a new "horsecloth" to protect him against the Christmas cold.