Note 1. Chappell (l. 209) says this song was printed in both editions of Morley’s Consort Lessons, 1599 and 1611. It also appeared in Queen Elizabeth’s Virginal Book, 1603, arranged by William Byrd. On this assumption Dyce says: “As it is to be found in print in 1599, it proves either that Twelfth Night was written in or before that year, or that, in accordance with the then prevailing custom, O mistress mine was an old song introduced into the play.” [back]
Note 2. Sweet-and-twenty: a phrase of endearment. For commentaries of this phrase see Dr. Furness’ Variorum Ed. Shakespeare, vol. xiii., pp. 114–15–16. [back]
