I have great interest in this song. I believe it was written at the time of the Spanish succession, and that it is Brittish is to be considered sure, yet Martyn Carthy's excelent version may not be the "origional". Can anyone inform me about this?

O'er the hills and o'er the main
Through flanders Portugal and Spain
Queen Anne commands and we'll obey
And go over the hills and far away...

Such is the chorus I know...ttr