<Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This article includes a list of references, related reading or external links, but its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations . Please help to improve this article by introducing more precise citations . (July 2013) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This article includes a list of references, related reading or external links, but its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations . Please help to improve this article by introducing more precise citations . (July 2013) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> "Over the Hills and Far Away" is a traditional British song, dating back to at least the late 17th century . One version was published in Thomas D'Urfey's Wit and Mirth, or Pills to Purge Melancholy; a very different one appeared in George Farquhar's 1706 play The Recruiting Officer . A version also appears in John Gay's The Beggar's Opera of 1728 . </P> <P> The words have changed over the years, as can be seen in the versions below . The only consistent element in early versions is the title line and the tune . D'Urfey's and Gay's versions both refer to lovers, while Farquhar's version refers to fleeing overseas to join the army . The tune was provided with another set of lyrics for the British Sharpe television series of the 1990s, based on Farquhar's version . This version was also recorded by John Tams who played Dan Hagman in the series . </P>

Who wrote over the hills and far away