The most important ballad connected with the subject of ale and beer is Sir John Barley-corne, of which there are many versions. It seems very probable that the original is not in existence, for at a very early date songs bearing the same name, and containing in effect the same words, were known both in the North of England and in the West Country. In later editions of Sir John Barley-corne old printers seem to have frequently varied the text, and in recent times Burns has recast the verses of the old ballad.
The version given below is the oldest in the Roxburghe Collection, and must have been written at some time previous to the reign of James I. To anyone who has perused these pages so far, the pretty allegory contained in the ballad will not require explanation, but it may be well to point out that Sir John is the grain of barley which the farmer, the maltster, the miller, and the brewer do their best to destroy. However, after having forced Sir John to go through the various processes of agriculture, malting, and brewing, a friend, Thomas Good-ale, comes to the poor fellow’s assistance with mickle might, and takes “their tongues away, their legs or else their sight.” The illustration is taken from a later version.
SIR JOHN BARLEY-CORNE.
A pleasant new Ballad to sing both even and morne Of the bloody Murther of Sir John Barley-corne.
To the tune of Shall I lye beyond thee. {296}
As I went through the North countrey, I heard a merry greeting, A pleasant toy and full of joy, two noblemen were meeting.
And as they walkèd for to sport, upon a summer’s day, Then with another nobleman, they went to make a fray.
Whose name was Sir John Barley-corne; he dwelt down in a dale; Who had a kinsman dwelt him nigh, they cal’d him Thomas Good-ale.
Another namèd Richard Beere was ready at that time, Another worthy Knight was there, call’d Sir William White-wine.