Here We Come a-Wassailing Here we come a-wassailing Among the leaves so green; Here we come a-wandering, So fair to be seen. Love and joy come to you, And to your wassail too; And God bless you and send you a happy new year, And God send you a happy new year! We are not your daily beggars Who beg from door to door; But we are neighbor's children Whom you have seen before. Love and joy come to you, And to your wassail too; And God bless you and send you a happy new year, And God send you a happy new year! We have a little purse Made of ratching leather skin; We want some of your small change To line it well within. Love and joy come to you, And to your wassail too; And God bless you and send you a happy new year, And God send you a happy new year! God bless the Master of this house, Likewise the Mistress too; And all the little children That round the table go. Love and joy come to you, And to your wassail too; And God bless you and send you a happy new year, And God send you a happy new year!

Wassail: A salutation or toast given in drinking someone's health or as an expression of good will at a festivity. - The drink used in such toasting, commonly ale or spiced wine.

Recipe: 2 cups water - 1 cup honey - 4 cloves - 3 cinnamon sticks - 2 thinly sliced lemons - 1 bottle medium dry red wine
Simmer water, honey, cloves and cinnamon for five minutes. Add 2 thinly sliced lemons and allow to stand for 7-8 minutes. Add the wine and heat gently but don't allow it to boil. Serve hot.

Ratching leather: A 1909 Webster's Dictionary defines 'ratch' as 'to stretch' or 'to streak.'

Midi: Here We Come a-Wassailing