Classic Poem

In the latter end of Christmas, the same Gentleman was likewise desired to sing; and although against his will, was content to singe as followeth.
The Christmas now is past and I haue kept my fast
With prayer euery day:
And like a Country Clowne with nodding vp and downe,
Haue past the time away.

As for old Christmas Games, or daunsing with fine Dames,
Or shewes, or prety playes:
A solemne oath I sweare, I came not where they were
Not all these holy dayes.

I did not sing one noate, except it were by roate
Still buzing like a Bee:
To ease my heauy harte, of some though little smarte.
For want of other glee.

And as for pleasaunt Wine, there was no drinke so fine
For to be tasted heere:
Full simple was my fare, if that I should compare
The same to Christmas cheere.

I sawe no kinde of sight, that might my minde delight
Beleeue me, noble Dame:
But euery thing I saw, did freat at wo my maw
To thinke vpon the same.

Upon some bushy balke, full faine I was to walke
In Wooddes, from tree to tree,
For wante of better roome: but since my fatall doome
Hath so appointed mee:

I stoode therewith content, till Christmas full was spente
In hope that God will sende
A better yet next yeare, my heauie heart to cheare:
And so I make an ende.