'Wassail' is a derivation of 'wes hál' the old English version of 'cheers!' and the carol based on this salutation originated in Yorkshire, England. The custom of the 'wassail bowl' filled with punch also evolved and subsequently children began to carry a token wassail bowl, decorated with rosemary, when they went carol singing. This tradition still survives in some parts of Yorkshire.

1. 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 you your wassail too
And God bless you, and send you a happy New Year
And God send you a happy New Year

2. We are not daily beggers, that beg from door to door
But we are neighbours children whom you have seen before

3. We have got a little purse of stretching leather skin
We want a little money to line it well within

4. God bless the master of this house, likewise his mistress too
And all the little children that round the table go