This ballad is in Set 3 of our set list right now....lol 1. Anyway, I'm of the opinion that Matty was simply being chivalrous, (in the extreme), first of all reminding Lord Darnell's wife that she is married, then going home with her to service her needs anyway.

2. The servant was doing his duty as well.

3. Lord Darnell was also doing what was expected of him by killing the pair. In those days, I believe that's what one did.

4. Lady Darnell knew the consequences, living in England where the man could cheat, (yeah, right- "Bringing the yearlings home"... more like "Bedding the shepardess alone.") and the woman was chattel, expected to be the main breeding stock to the Lord only. She knew the risk to herself, but she did involve Matty, so I guess she's closer to being the "baddy" here of any of them in my opinion. She was honest to the end though, confessing her disgust for Lord Darnell even when she had a chance to lie & possibly save herself-"I'd rather have a kiss from the dead Matty's lips than you or your finery."

5. Does anyone know if this ballad was based on any particular real event like "The Bonny Boy" (or "The Trees They do Grow High") was? I also think it's interesting how a the characters' motivations change with the different versions I read about above.