Oranges and Lemons

Origin

'Oranges and Lemons' is a well-known English Nursery Rhyme. Its origin is unknown, but it is possible that the children of London made up the words to fit the rhythm of the ringing bells. Children all over England know the song, and it is passed from generation to generation.

Oranges and lemons
Say the bells of St Clements
You owe me five farthings
Say the bells of St Martins
When will you pay me?
Say the bells of Old Bailey
When I grow rich
Say the bells of Shoreditch
When will that be?
Say the bells of Stepney
I'm sure I don't know
Says the great bell at Bow
Here comes a candle to light you to bed
Here comes a chopper to chop off your head
Chop chop chop chop the last man's head!

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