Page:Three new songs.pdf/3

 So then withal I cut my hair.

And dress’d myself in man’s attire,

With a doublet, horse, and beaver hat,

Aep a golden band about my neck.

With a silver rapier by my side,

So like a gallant I did ride:

But on a day it happened so,

That I to the king s court did go,

With hat in hand I bow’d full lew,

My love and duty for to shew,

All that I of his grace did crave,

That I a servant’s place have.

Stand up young man, the king replied,

Your suit it shall not be denied,

But first tell me what can yon do,

You shall be suited thereunto.

Will you be usher of my hall,

To wait upon my nobles all?

Or will you be taster of the wine?

And wait upon me when I dine?

Or will you be chamberlain,

To make my bed both soft and fine?

Or will you be one of my guard?

And I will give thee thy reward.

Sweet William with a smiling face,

Unto the king if it please your grace,

To shew such favour unto me,

Your chamberlain I fain would be.