There are two tunes of this name. This version was a broadside ballad and appears in A Collection of Choice Garlands (circa 1780). The other version is alternately titled The True Lovers: or the King's command must be obeyed.

England was involved in several wars on the continent. In 1702 England and The Netherlands declared war on France and Spain. England's involvement in the War of Spanish Succession lasted until 1711. In 1718 Britain entered into the Quadruple Alliance with France, the Netherlands, and the Holy Roman Emperor in opposition to Philip V of Spain. In 1725 Great Britain was again involved with war on the continent. One source dates this to the Seven Years' War (1756-1763). The Seven Years' War was fought between a coalition of Austria, France, Russia, Sweden and Saxony and Prussia (led by Frederick the Great). England allied with Prussia. The American theater of the Seven Years' War is known as the French and Indian War.

• The Seven Years War
• The Seven Years War Website
• Sarah's French and Indian War Page
• The War of Spanish Succession
• The Thirty Years War
• Nicole Cargill-Kipar's Late 17th Century Clothing: The War of Spanish Succession A very cool site. Much more than clothing!