Many thanks for all the inputs evrybodies. I think now I can just enjoy the song knowing that both versions are probably equally valid although the vision of a killer attack beagle driving the poor tenants from their miserable dwelling is just a tad weird.
Incidentally the DB sez Beagle and I know the song from a CD by Taliesin which also sez Beagle.
I know wot I'll do I'll sing it meself and I'll sing BEADLE cos I like to have the last word!
......................Keef