From the recording Ancient Ayres & Carols for Christmas
The Cherry Tree Carol dates back to early 15th century England and is both a carol and a Child Ballad comprising three seperate carols that merged over the centuries. This Appalachian version includes the verse with Joseph's very real reaction to news that his virgin betrothed is about to have a baby that isn't his.
Lyrics
THE CHERRY TREE CAROL
When Joseph was an old man, an old man was he,
He married virgin Mary, the queen of Galilee.
Joseph and Mary walked through an orchard green,
There were berries and cherries. as thick as might be seen.
Mary spoke to Joseph, so meek and so mild,
“Joseph, gather me some cherries, for I am with child."
Joseph flew in anger, in anger flew he,
"Let the father of the baby gather cherries for thee!”
Then up spoke Baby Jesus from in Mary's womb ―
"Bend down the tallest branches that my mother might have some."
Then bent down the tallest branches ’til they touched Mary’s hand,
Cried she, “O look thou, Joseph, I have cherries by command!”
When Joseph was an old man, an old man was he,
He married virgin Mary, the queen of Galilee.