Volume Iv Part 13 (2/2)
BRING US IN GOOD ALE.
_Bring us in good ale, and bring us in good ale;_ _For our blessed Lady's sake, bring us in good ale._
Bring us in no brown bread, for that is made of bran, Nor bring us in no white bread, for therein is no game, But bring us in good ale.
Bring us in no beef, for there are many bones, But bring us in good ale, for that goeth down at once; And bring us in good ale.
Bring us in no bacon, for that is pa.s.sing fat, But bring us in good ale, and give us enough of that; And bring us in good ale.
Bring us in no mutton, for that is often lean, Nor bring us in no tripes, for they be seldom clean; But bring us in good ale.
Bring us in no eggs, for there are many sh.e.l.ls, But bring us in good ale, and give us nothing else; And bring us in good ale.
Bring us in no b.u.t.ter, for therein are many hairs, Nor bring us in no pig's flesh, for that will make us boars; But bring us in good ale.
Bring us in no puddings, for therein is all G.o.d's good, Nor bring us in no venison, for that is not for our blood; But bring us in good ale.
Bring us in no capon's flesh, for that is often dear, Nor bring us in no duck's flesh, for they s...o...b..r in the mere; But bring us in good ale.
_Wright's Songs and Carols._
ABOUT THE BOARD.
Come bravely on, my masters, For here we shall be tasters Of curious dishes that are brave and fine, Where they that do such cheer afford, I'll lay my knife upon the board, My master and my dame they do not pine.
Who is't will not be merry And sing down, down, aderry?
For now it is a time of joy and mirth; 'Tis said 'tis merry in the hall When as beards they do wag all; G.o.d's plenty's here, it doth not show a dearth.
Let him take all lives longest, Come fill us of the strongest, And I will drink a health to honest John; Come, pray thee, butler, fill the bowl, And let it round the table troll, When that is up, I'll tell you more anon.
_New Christmas Carols, A.D. 1642._
BEFORE THE FEAST.
All you that are good fellows, Come hearken to my song; I know you do not hate good cheer Nor liquor that is strong.
I hope there is none here But soon will take my part, Seeing my master and my dame Say welcome with their heart.
This is a time of joyfulness And merry time of year, Whereas the rich with plenty stored Doth make the poor good cheer; Plum-porridge, roast-beef, and minced-pies Stand smoking on the board, With other brave varieties Our master doth afford.
Our mistress and her cleanly maids Have neatly played the cooks; Methinks these dishes eagerly At my sharp stomach looks, As though they were afraid To see me draw my blade; But I revenged on them will be Until my stomach's stayed.
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