Another song from the Gabriel Hounds CD. I was wondering if any of you are familiar with the original source lyrics and melody for this one (possibly by another title). Do any of you have the original melody in ABC form or regular music?

Terry

THE SERVING MAN

Oh, 'tis of a damsel both fair and handsome
This story's true or so I've been told
By the banks of Shannon in a lofty mansion
Her father gathered great stores of gold

With many a noble he strove to mate her
And still his counsel was always one
For with the folly that belongs to nature
Her mind was set on the serving man

And as these true lovers were fondly talking
Her father heard them and near them drew
And when he learned what they were discoursing
In anger home he then swiftly flew

To build a dungeon was his intention
To part true lovers conceived a plan
He swore an oath by all that's high and holy
He'd part his daughter from the serving man

So he built a dungeon of bricks and mortar
A single stair it was underground
And the food he gave her was bread and water
No other comfort for her was found

And every day he would sorely scold her
Till to her father she thus began
Oh father father won't you relent now
And let me marry my serving man

When young Edward found out her habitation
It was secured by an iron door
Then he swore an oath in spite of all the nation
He'd gain her freedom or ride no more

And at his leisure he told with pleasure
To gain the freedom of Mary Anne
And when at length he had gained his treasure
She cried my faithful young serving man

When her father found out that she was vanished
Was like a lion he soon did roar
Saying from green Erin ye shall be banished
I'll draw my sword and you'll ride no more

Agreed said Edward I freed your daughter
I'm glad I did it, do all you can
But forgive your daughter I'll die with pleasure
The one at fault is the serving man

When her father found him so tender hearted
Was then he fell to the dungeon floor
Saying no true lovers should e'er be parted
Since love can conquer an iron door

Now there is one to be parted never
In robes and riches this couple can
And the fine young lady can live in pleasure
Contented with her serving man