SEASONABLE RELICS.

PART OF AN ANCIENT SONG.


The following is part of an old song which I have faithfully copied; it
was, I am told, sung at Wakes in the north of England, and also previous
to Christmas: from the appearance, little doubt is left as to its being
of northern composition.

I have seen in former volumes of the MIRROR, specimens of two ancient
ballads, and as they are a curiosity, I have sent mine as being, I think,
equally so. There is an old ballad which I have met with and purchased,
entitled "The Outlandish Knight," but it is certainly greatly altered,
though the tale is preserved.

This ean night, this ean night,
Every night and awle,
Fire and fleet,[1] and candle lyght,
And Chryst receyve thy sawle.

When those from hence dost passe awaye,
Every night and awle,
To whinnye moore thou com'st at last,
And Chryste receyve thy sawle.

If ever thou gav'st either hosen or shune,
Every night and awle,
Sit thee down and put them on,