230
English Song and Ballad Music.
as affording an insight into the dress and manners of an age with which we cannot be too well acquainted.
The tune is contained in several of Dowland’s lute manuscripts; in William Ballet’s Lute Book; in Sir John Hawkins’ transcripts of virginal music; in The Dancing Master; The Beggar’s Opera; and in many other books.
As the second part differs in the oldest copies, from others of later date, both versions are subjoined.
The first is from William Ballet’s Lute Book compared with another in Sir John Hawkins’ transcripts of virginal music; both having the older second part.
Tune of Green Sleeves. Oldest copy.
I have been ready at your hand
To grant whatever you would crave,
I have both waged life and land,
Your love and good-will for to have.
Greensleeves was all my joy, &c.
To grant whatever you would crave,
I have both waged life and land,
Your love and good-will for to have.
Greensleeves was all my joy, &c.
I bought thee kerchers to thy head,
That were wrought fine and gallantly,
I kept thee booth at board and bed,
Which cost my purse well favoredly.
Greensleeves was all my joy, &c.
That were wrought fine and gallantly,
I kept thee booth at board and bed,
Which cost my purse well favoredly.
Greensleeves was all my joy, &c.
