Popular Music Of The Olden Time Vol 1

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REIGN OF ELIZABETH.		151
of the merry Christmas carols, and to be sung to the tune of " All you that are good fellows."



This is a time of joyfulness, And merry time of year, When as the rich with plenty stor'd Do make the poor good cheer. Plum-porridge, roast beef, and minc'd pies, Stand smoking on the board; With other brave varieties, Our master doth afford. Our mistress and her cleanly maids Have neatly play'd 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my blade ; But I revenged on them will be, Until my stomach's stay'd.	Come fill us of the strongest, Small drink is out of date; Methinks I shall fare like a prince, And sit in gallant state : This is no miser's feast, Although that things be dear; God grant the founder of this feast Each Christmas keep good cheer. This day for Christ we celebrate, Who was born at this time ; For which all Christians should rejoice, And I do sing in rhyme. When you have given thanks, Unto your dainties fall, Heav'n bless my master and my dame, Lord bless me, and you all.