[pat_perth]

The poem is set on coast of England.
The speaker is talking to his daughter
The child is being told not to look out the window when she hears the horses going by
The gentlemen are the smugglers and King George's men are those out to catch them
Because it will be hidden temporarily in the speakers woodheap and removed before morning.
Mother is mending father's coat to hide evidence of his involvement
The dogs belong to the speaker and they are familiar with those riding by.
Take no notice of what is going on outside.