Scarborough Fair

Henry III established a fair at Scarborough by charter in 1235.
It was held in the town until 1788 but is now only remembered in the famous folk song.

Are you going to Scarborough Fair?
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
Remember me to one who lives there;
For he once was a true love of mine.



Can you make me a cambric shirt?
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
Without any seam, nor needlework;
Then you shall be a true love of mine.

Can you wash it in yonder well?
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
Which ne'er sprung water, nor rain e'er fell;
Then you shall be a true love of mine.

Can you dry it on yonder thorn?
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
Which ne'er bore blossom since Adam was born;
Then you shall be a true love of mine.



Now you have asked me questions three.
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
Pray thee answer the same for me;
Then you shall be a true love of mine.

Can you find me an acre of land?
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
Between the salt water and the sea sand;
Then you shall be a true love of mine.

Can you plow it with a ram's horn?
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
And sow it all over with one peppercorn;
Then you shall be a true love of mine.

Can you reap it with a sickle of leather?
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
And tie it up with a peacock's feather;
Then you shall be a true love of mine.

When you have done and finished your work?
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme
Then come to me for your cambric shirt;
And you shall be a true love of mine.

Love imposes impossible tasks.
Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme
Although not more than any heart asks;
So you shall be a true love of mine.

Midi: Scarborough Fair