Here it will be seen that, although the popular tale is mentioned, it is treated as a mere invention unworthy of credence.
The next in point of time is the ballad by Richard Johnson, published in the Crowne Garland of Goulden Roses (1612), which probably had a much earlier existence in a separate form. It is the earliest form of the story of Whittington now in existence.
A song of Sir Richard Whittington, who by strange fortunes came to bee thrice Lord Maior of London; with his bountifull guifts and liberallity given to this honourable Citty.
(To the tune of “Dainty come thou to me.”)
“Here must I tell the praise
Of worthie Whittington,
Known to be in his dayes
Thrice Maior of London.
But of poor parentage
Borne was he, as we heare,