Wandering Minstrels .

Being a dour recluse by nature, I am always uneasy about being serenaded by singers who want to entertain you at your table as you dine.

Often they will ask you to suggest a song for them to perform.

I usually ask for "Old MacDonald had a farm". They undoubtedly know it, but they are generally reluctant to sing it.

Result - they move quickly to another table and relative peace returns.