Mistress and all would sing:--


HARVEST HOME.

Here's a health unto our Master, the giver of the feast,
Not only to our Master, but to our Mistress;
We wish all things may prosper whate'er he take in hand,
For we are all his servants, and all at his command.
Drink, boys drink, and see you do not spill,
For if you do you shall drink two, it is our Master's will.

I've been to France, I've been to Dover,
I've been to Harvest Home all the world over, over, and over,
Drink up your liquor and turn the bowl over.

Another:--

Here's health unto our Master the founder of the feast,
God bless his endeavours and give him increase,
And send him good crops that we may meet another year,
Here's our Master's good health boys come drink off your beer.

Some of the old songs used to be regularly sung. "The Poacher" was
always a great favourite and the chorus, "For its my delight on a starry
night" used to be given with great force and feeling. I wish I could
remember the old songs which are now forgotten.

The day on which Harvest was finished, and the corn safely "Hovelled"
used to be called "Wheat Hovel Day."