Don:
Nice version, especially the "diamond ring" bit - hadn't come across that before. Without wishing to spoil the thread by getting too serious, it looks like somebody (presumably another traditional singer, long time ago) has deliberately introduced that bit to make the moral judgements a bit more complex. Just like somebody, somewhere, changed the maidservant to manservant in 'Lost Hunter', and introduced a sexual charge where previously there was none.

Diane:
"For a fairer maiden than ten of you is waiting at Richard Hall..."
[translation] "ER: Nah, I'm going home to the wife."

Is this the way an adulterer, even one who's seen the error of his ways, would speak about his wife? Sounds to me like the Lass Of Richard Hall (the 'Richard' is surely coincidental) is a more recent heart-throb.

Phil:
I meant to say hello in my first message but got carried away with ballad anorakism. Hope to return to Illinois soon.

Anonymous Guest:
You must be feeling really disgusted that some of us have carried the 'fruitless pursuit' this far.