I've told before of Wherwell, of its priory, and its ghost;*
It seems that same location can another legend boast;

'Twas founded by Elfrida - was she heroine or villain?
I guess you'll think the latter, when I've told this tale of killin'.

Back in nine hundredd-diddly-squat, King Edgar, man of peace,
Called Ethelwulf, a saxon earl, and friend, and said: "'Wulf please,
I need a trusted man like you, to act as errand runner,
And fetch me back this Hampshire bird, I hear she is a stunner.

"Her name it is Elfrida, Longparish where she dwelleth,
And she could melt a statue's heart, or so the rumours telleth."
So get you on your trusted steed, stop not for food or beer,
And galop down to Hampshire, bring the lusty wench back here."

Thus Ethelwulf got on his nag, to Andover he headed,

And found the said Elfrida, and to her was swiftly wedded.
He sent a note to Edgar, saying "Sire, she's just a slag.
I wouldn't foul your presence, lord, by bringing you the bag."

But Edgar learned the truth, somehow, and ordered blood be shed;
And Ethelwulf soon noticed that his body lacked a head.
Then Edgar found the widow, and he took her as his queen,
'Cos even slightly second-hand on her he was still keen.

I know no more of what befell, till year nine-seventy-five,
When Edgar kicked the bucket, leaving 'Frida to survive,
Along with step-son Edward as the true heir to the throne...
But cunning bitch Elfrida had a nipper of her own.

She sent men to Corfe Castle, where young Edward did reside,
And there the fellow snuffed it, and I doubt 'twas suicide.
And Ethelred, Elfrida's son, upon the death of Eddie,

Did gallantly pick up the crown, though thought by some Unready.

Please stay awake a moment more, we're almost there my friends.
Elfrida, feeling guiltythought she'd better make amends;
She built the Wherwell priory, as abbess there did dwell,
And finally died in ten oh two, and maybe went to hell.




* The Chilbolton Ghost: Chilbolton Ghost

More historical stuff: hist.htm





16 Apr 2001.