The High Spen Calling-On Song

This the full wording of the calling-on song as formerly used to introducte the High Spen sword dancers, as notated by Bill Cassie in 1954.

Kind friends now I pray give attention,
And just listen to what I’ve to say
In the first place I merely will mention,
By chance we have travelled this way.
We’re travelling this country for pleasure
Likewise to take of your cheer
And the lasses we mean to be courting
And taste all the publican’s beer.

I’ve brought here five merry young fellows
So noble, so handsome, so nice
Be quick bonny lassies and tell us
Which of my five men is your choice

The first of men is Bold Robin,
The greatly renowned Robin Hood
He’s the hero of the Forest of Epping
The forest of bonny Sherwood.
He’s the hero of many a brave action
He conquered whatever befell
And his enemy went to destruction
But none can this person excel.

The next is Will Scarlet so merry
So noble, so handsome, so nice.
His cheeks are as red as a cherry
With a bloomful of love in his eye.
He’s the hero of many a brave action
He conquered whatever befell
And his enemy went to destruction
But none can this person excel.

The next is the son of a Seaman
Like Nelson he’s great in command
He’s true, he’s bold and he’s worthy
And the leader of this little band.

The next is the son of a farmer
His father has plenty of cows
His sister she’s kept for to milk them
While Jack drives the horses and ploughs.

The next is the son of a miner
He works by the strength of his arm
He sends the coals up in the summer
And winter to keep us all warm.

Kind friends now you’ve seen my five actors
They mean to act up to their part.
They have travelled this world full of danger
With strong hand and stout willing heart.
Be calm lads, be mindful and steady
You’re fit to jump over the moon
Now player I hope you are ready
And play us a canny bit tune.

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