Page:The Folk-Lore Journal Volume 7 1889.djvu/473

Rh from any lawful recreation, such as dancing, either men or women, archery for men, leaping, vaulting, nor from having of May Games, Whitsun Ales, and Morris Dances, and the setting up of May Poles." In 1647, plays, interludes, dances, all popular pastimes were suppressed. But it is not likely that the amusements were indulged in after the outbreak of the Rebellion. We may therefore reckon that they were discontinued from 1642 to 1660. Such a break in continuity—such, a lapse—must have had great effect upon the public pas- times when they were revived at the Restoration.

The song of Landlord and Tenant calls for no particular examination. The burden of the song—the payment of rents—assorts with the date of the whole performance, October 20; but this only emphasises the disparity of the Christmas element.