Here We Come A-Wassailing

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Here We Come A-Wassailing (or Here We Come A-Caroling) is a Christmas carol and New Years song. It refers to the 'wassail', a drink (typically mulled cider) that would be used in toasts at banquets or other large dinners.

[edit] Lyrics

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As with most carols, there are several related versions of the words. One version is presented below. The verses are sung in 6/8 time, while the chorus switches to 2/2.

Here we come a-wassailing
Among the leaves so green;
Here we come a-wand'ring
So fair to be seen.

CHORUS
Love and joy come to you,
And to you your wassail too;
And God bless you and send you
A Happy New Year
And God send you a Happy New Year.

Our wassail cup is made
Of the rosemary tree,
And so is our beer
Of the best barley:

CHORUS

We are not daily beggars
That beg from door to door;
But we are neighbours' children,
Whom you have seen before.

CHORUS

Good master and good mistress,
While you're sitting by the fire,
Pray think of us poor children
Who wander in the mire.

CHORUS

God bless the master of this house
Likewise the mistress too!
And all the little children
That 'round the table go.

CHORUS