trad
Johnny Collins from 1973: “Lucy Broadwood’s Wiltshire version of a song used at the traditional harvest supper. When the guests were seated a labourer, carrying a jug of beer or cider, filled a horn for every two men-one on each side of the table. As they drank, the first verse and chorus were sung and repeated until the man reached the end of the table. The second verse was then sung in the same manner.”
Here’s a health unto our master, the founder of the feast.ÿ We hope to God with all our hearts his soul in heav’n may rest;ÿ That all his works may prosper, whatever he takes in hand,ÿ For we are all his servants, and all at his command.ÿ Chorus So drink, boys, drink, And see that you do not spill For if you do you shall drink two, for ’tis our master’s will. And now we’ve drunk our master’s health, why should our missus go free? For why shouldn’t she go the heaven, to heaven as well as he? She is a good purvider, abroad as well as at home, So fill your cup and sup it up, for ’tis our havest home. Now harvest it is ended, and supper it is past,ÿ To our good mistress’ health, boys, a full and flowing glass,ÿ For she is a good woman, and makes us all good cheerÿ Here’s to our mistress’ health, boys, so all drink off your beer.