Fabulous Folklore: The Leicester Chambermaid

“So all you brisk and lively blades I pray be ruled by me,

And look well into your bargains before you money pay;

Or soon perhaps your folly will give you cause to cause to range,

For when you sport with pretty maids be sure you get your change!”

Jack was a butcher from London. He considered himself dapper, handsome - and clever. He was dispatched by the family business to Leicester. He had a good day at the cattle market, he gained his wares at a bargain price. He marvelled at himself. He was young, handsome, he had the “gift of the gab”, and he enjoyed the fruits that this skill brought him.

He checked into Queens, his inn for the night. He dined, he supped, and throughout the course of the night he heard whispers that the company of the serving girls could be bought for a small price. Except Bella. She was the niece of the landlord and considered herself above the market and cattle traders. Of course, for a young man like Jack, this was a challenge.

Bella, lush dark curls and pale skin, fell for Jack’s charms instantly. He was dressed in the latest London fashion, he had blonde hair and bright blue eyes, he spoke differently, and he had manners. He was full of tales of travel and adventure. He was so different to the country folk. Bella imagined herself marrying this young man, and moving to London to start a new life... wearing the latest dresses, and living in luxury.

Jack offered her a whole sovereign for what the girls offered for just a few small coins. What could the harm be...?

In the early hours Jack was caught creeping downstairs by the landlord who bellowed “you haven’t paid your bill!” Jack played the innocence card; maintaining that a whole sovereign had been paid to Bella, and that no change had been given to HIM.

Apologising profusely, the landlord called Bella down, who could hardly admit to what she had been doing all night, to corroborate Jack’s story, which she did so quietly in the landlord’s ear. Jack was offered his change, which he declined, and he left pleased with himself, a spring in his step, having gained quite the deal.

A year later, Jack was back at the cattle market, and at the close of day found that Queens was the only inn with a room. Was it a good idea? He wasn’t sure, but he thought to himself “what harm could a mere chambermaid do to the likes of me?"

He checked in, sat down right dinner, and he was halfway through this third pint when Bella appeared with a blonde haired child on her hip, which she promptly plonked on his knee. “What’s this?” He asked, aghast.

"Your change" replied Bella with a smile, "a whole sovereign you gave me, and here I am giving you your change!"

The entire inn erupted with her cleverness. The story spread around the town, where it has been told for many years, as warning to all parties that ALL things come at a price, and if it seems too good to be true, it probably is!

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