Who killed Cock Robin ?
I, said the Sparrow,
with my bow and arrow,
I killed Cock Robin.

Who'll be the parson ?
I, said the Rook,
with my little book,
I'll be the parson.

History:

The verse has no Middle English edition and first appears printed in the earliest known published assemblage of rhymes, Tommy Thumb's (Pretty) Song Book, 2 vol. (London, 1744), which too included "Little Tom Tucker," "Sing a Song of Sixpence. " The publishing appointment follows the political decline and surrender of Sir Robert Walpole, George II's best pastor, in February 1742 raising the theory the verse has a satiric subtext ("Robin" is a pet figure for Robert. The pastor had been in service since 1721, as First Lord of the Treasury, and had time to construct a strong coterie of enemies.

The tale has been connected with Robin Hood: The Death of Cock Robin is often taken as a Robin Hood analog and the willing offers of assistance following this case, as described in the lyrics, reflect the higher admiration that the fabled number of Robin Hood was, and is, yet held. "Who killed Cock Robin?" has been frequently reprinted with illustrations, as appropriate interpretation textile for tiny children. "Who Killed Cock Robin?" was a 1935 lively Walt Disney brief topic. Cock Robin is mentioned in the Frank Sinatra movie "Robin and the Seven Hoods", a movie which adapted Robin Hood to a 30's mobster setting.