It is, indeed, a lovely song and from a wonderful TV series :-)

You can read about the TV series here - it's finally been released on DVD last year, but I haven't gotten round to ordering my copy yet. I will, though.

The song is played in connection with the courtship of the two main characters, Jonathan Garrett (Jon English) and Mary Mulvane (Mary Larkin).

Btw there's a bit missing of the lyrics in those posted so far. The full lyrics (copied from the LP) are:

Six Ribbons
Words and music Jon English

If I were a minstrel
I'd sing you six love songs
to tell all the world
of the love that we share

If I were a merchant
I'd bring you six diamonds
with six blood red roses
for my love to wear

Chorus:
But I am a simple man
a poor common farmer
so take my six ribbons
to tie back your hair

If I were a nobleman
I'd bring you six carriages
and six snow white horses
to take you anywhere

If I were an emperor
I'd build you six palaces
with six hundred servants
for comforting fare

Chorus

If I were a minstrel
I'd sing you six love songs
to tell all the world
of the love that we share

So be not afraid my love
you're never alone love
While you wear my ribbons
tying back your hair

Once I was a simple man
A poor common farmer
I gave you six ribbons
to tie back your hair

Too ra lee Too ra lie
All I can share
Is only six ribbons
to tie back your hair

I think the last 4 lines must be the "higher melody" you're referring to?

Best wishes,

Bente