English and Scottish Ballads, Volume VIII

Stories resembling that contained in the following ballad are to be met with in the literature of most of the nations of Europe; for example, in the _Gesta Romanorum_, (No. XIX....

Now in the fifth part I'll endeavour to shew, How things with her parents and sister did go; Her mother and sister of life [are] bereft, 195 And all alone the old knight he was...

This knight had a son both comely and tall, Who often-times used to be at a ball, 70 A mile out of town, and one evening-tide, To see a fine dancing away he did ride.

Having thus consulted, this couple partèd. 145 Next day this young 'squire took to his bed. When his dear parents this thing perceiv'd, For fear of his death they were heartily...

But now mark, good people, the cream of the jest, In what a strange manner this female was drest: Catskins into a garment she made, I declare, 35 The which for her clothing she...

You fathers and mothers, and children also, Come near unto me, and soon you shall know The sense of my ditty, for I dare to say, The like hasn't been heard of this many long day.