Mouldy - Speaking of folk music and the oral tradition: I once heard a recording of "I's the B'ye" with the lyrics, "Sally Wight, she's out of site, her petticoat won't support her," rather than "her petticoat wonts (as in needs) a border." Years later, when I met the singer, I asked about the odd lyrics he'd recorded. Seems he'd learned the song orally and never questioned the silliness of the lyrics. He was a bit embarrassed, but laughed at his own folly, reminding me that it was, after all, folk music. Bernie Clay, rest in peace; you taught me a very valuable lesson with that one! If I don't understand it, I don't sing it.

Well, back to those maidens in the ale house. I have located a copy of the book with the other verses and will have it by Monday. I'll try to post them asap.

seagoddess