As well as being a song about the city as a decadent and morally corrupting place, this song is interesting in that it explains the words of "Yankee Doodle"

"Stuck a feather in his cap: And called it macaroni".

A Maccaroni was a term used around 1800 for a man who followed the latest fashions.

The "Knowing Maccaroni" was seemingly overcharged by the prostitute he chose : Mrs(!) Susan.

I don't suppose this song has been sung for nearly 200 years - and quite rightly.


THE KNOWING MACCARONI OUTWITTED
[c. 1780-1812]

You beaux of London city, likewise St. Jame's park
Give ear unto my ditty, tis of a frolicksome spark
It is one of our dear brothers that lately was betrayed
It was by Mrs. Susan the lady's waiting maid.

His hair being oil'd and powder'd, hung dangling to his waist
No fop could be e'er go fine, his cloaths embroidered with lace
With snuff-box in his pocket as I [d]o you suppose
As large as any turnip, for to perfume his nose.

He stept to Mrs. Susan, to whom his fancy led
A guinea he would give to gain her maidenhead.
Get you to Covent Garden, to Fleet Street or the Strand,
And there for half the money you may have one at your command.

Tune: Beaux of London City, Adderbury version