The origins of the song are uncertain. "Weasel" in this song is believed to mean coat (Cockney slang for coat was "weasel and stoat"). In the 19th century, many poor people owned but one suit, which they wore to church on Sunday. Often they would have to pawn (or "pop") the coat/suit on Monday, paying to get it back before next Sunday's church service. The "mulberry bush" lyrics have, in different versions, been "cobbler's house", "chicken coop" and "carpenter's bench"; the monkey chasing the weasel was likely illustrating the futility of constantly pawning/un-pawning one's Sunday best.

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