They had thrown
their little possessions into a Common Treasury; they had taken
possession of their birthright, the Commons of England; they had
patiently endured all possible wrongs, injuries and insults, and had
still remained steadfast to the Law of Reason and Love, to the express
command of their acknowledged Master and King--Resist not evil. However,
though their courage and endurance remained unabated, their little stock
of provisions was becoming exhausted, and the end of their high
endeavour was in sight. However this may be, it was about this time,
during the bleak winter months, that they composed two Christmas Carols
to sing round their camp-fires, which were given to the world the
following April in a little book bearing the following title:
"THE DIGGERS MIRTH:[129:1]
OR
Certain Verses composed and fitted to tunes, for the delight and
recreation of all those that dig, or own that work, in the
Commonwealth of England.
Wherein is shewed how the Kingly Power doth still reign in several
sorts of men.
With a hint of that Freedom which shall come,
When the Father shall reign alone in His Son.
Set forth by those who were the original of that so righteous a
work, and continue still successful therein at Cobham in Surrey.
LONDON.
Printed in the year 1650."
It contains but two long pieces, both of which merit more than a passing
notice.
Pages:
170
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