[See “[Stag],” vol. ii. pp. 212, 374.]
One is chosen to be Rover, and a place is marked off called “The Den,” from which he starts, and to which he and the others caught can run for protection. He has to clasp his hands and set off in pursuit of one of the players, whom he must crown without unclasping his hands. Before he leaves the den he calls out—
Jockie Rover,
Three times over,
If you do not look out,
I’ll gie you a blover.
When he catches one he unclasps his hands, and makes for the den along with the one caught. The players close in upon them, and beat them with their caps. The two now join hands, and before leaving the den repeat the same words, and give chase to catch another. When another is caught, the three run to the den, followed by the others pelting them.
During the time they are running to catch another player, every attempt is made by the others to break the band by rushing on two outstretched arms, either from before or from behind. Every time one is taken or the band broken, all already taken rush to the den, beaten by those not taken.—Dyke (Rev. Dr. Gregor).
A form of “[Warney],” “[Whiddy].”
Jolly Lads, Bold.
Here come two bold, jolly lads,
Just new come from the shore:
We’ll spend our time in drinking wine,
As we have done before.
Then the ring dances round, singing—