Great story, Jim!

Richie/Richard
Since we last deliberated on the Clerk Colvill/Lady Alice discussion I have had a closer look at both ballads in relation to continental versions. Whilst it cannot be denied that both are part of the same original story I don't think they were ever related in the English language. What I now suggest is more likely is that both ballads are based on versions of the story from different areas. The only continental version that has his death caused by any sort of water-related being is the Breton ballad. George Collins/Lady Alice has closer affinity to the Italian versions.