Friend and pitcher

[Beaunydle]

Does anyone know the origin and meaning of the term "A Friend and pitcher".
It is mentioned in many 19th century songs, comic operas and literary works.

Could the word "pitcher" refer to a reliable source, such as a pitcher of water?
Or is it perhaps alluding to someone who helps by "pitching in"?

My feeling is that "pitcher" probably has a totally different meaning here.
There are even records of English pubs call "The friend and Pitcher" in the early 19th century.

I look forward to some suggestions.

regards

Beau

[antiquary]

A late 18th century song is at the bottom of all this:


My Friend and Pitcher came from the pen of John O'Keeffe (1747-1843), Irish-born but thoroughly Anglicised dramatist...The text, at this distance in time, seems slight and sentimental as the refrain indicates:

My friend so rare, my girl so fair!
With such, what mortal can be richer?
Give me but these, a fig for care!
With my sweet girl, my friend and pitcher…


http://www.mustrad.org.uk/articles/bbals_09.htm

The last line is clearly a list of three different things to be wished for: he wants his girl, his friend and something to drink. It's rather like Omar Khayyam's 'A book of verses underneath the bough, a jug of wine, a loaf of bread - and Thou'.

[Beaunydle]

A late 18th century song is at the bottom of all this:



http://www.mustrad.org.uk/articles/bbals_09.htm

The last line is clearly a list of three different things to be wished for: he wants his girl, his friend and something to drink. It's rather like Omar Khayyam's 'A book of verses underneath the bough, a jug of wine, a loaf of bread - and Thou'.
Thank you for your quick reply Antiquary.
I was intrigued as to the origin of "Friend and pitcher".
O'Keefe puts it quite eloquently.

Regards
Beau