  Sung to the Tune of “Essex Last Good Night.” A ALL you that in this house be here, Remember Christ that for us dy’d, And spend away with modest cheere, In loving sort this Christmas tide. And whereas plenty God hath sent, Give frankly to your friends in love: The bounteous mind is freely bent, And never will a niggard prove. Our table spread within the hall, I know a banquet is at hand, And friendly sort to welcome all That wil unto their tacklings stand. The maids are bonny girles I see, Who have provided much good cheer, Which at my dame’s commandment be For I have here two knives in store, To lend to him that wanteth one; Commend my wits, good lads, therefore, That comes now hither having none. For if I schuld, no Christmas pye Would fall, I doubt, unto my share; Wherefore I will my manhood try, To fight a battle if I dare. For pastry-crust, like castle walls, Stands braving me unto my face; I am not well until it falls, And I made captain of the place. The prunes so lovely look on me, I cannot chuse but venture on: The pye-meat spiced brave I see, The which I must not let alone. Then, butler, fill me forth some beer, My song hath made me somewhat dry: And so again to this good cheer, I’le quickly fall couragiously. And for my master I will pray, With all that of his household are, Both old and young, that long we may Of God’s good blessings have a share. |
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