This site claims it is a secular song, probably with French roots. It is also possible, said Father Stockert, that a French song was claimed by English Catholics or that the two songs were blended. But if it is a legend, it's a legend that dates back to the days of Queen Elizabeth. Maybe somebody will go dig this all up again. D.C. He writes this weekly column for the Scripps Howard News Service.
All columns are the sole property of the author.
Reprinted with permission. Reproduction is prohibited. Online Christian Resources.