The Oxford Book of Ballads - online book

A Selection Of The Best English Lyric Ballads Chosen & Edited by Arthur Quiller-Couch

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The Riddling IQiight i
T HERE were three sisters fair and bright, Jennifer, Gentle and Rosemary, And they three loved one valiant knight — As the dow fries over the mulberry-tree.
'
II The eldest sister let him in, And barr'd the door with a silver pin.
in The second sister made his bed, And placed soft pillows under his head.
IV
The youngest sister that same night
Was resolved for to wed wi' this valiant knight.
v
' And if you can answer questions three,
0  then, fair maid, I'll marry wi' thee.
VI
' O what is louder nor a horn, Or what is sharper nor a thorn ?
VII
' Or what is heavier nor the lead, Or what is better nor the bread ?
VIII
' Or what is longer nor the way. Or what is deeper nor the sea ?'—
IX
' O shame is louder nor a horn, And hungei is sharper nor a thorn.
dow\ dove. 6
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