Have not come across that particular song Martin, but I suppose at sometime Mr Roberts might well have done, and phrases stuck in his mind, but how many songs start with "I'll tell a tale of......." or similar. I hate to think. (cue for someone to post a bloody great long list of song titles, but I'll take the risk.) I will check in with my Irish expert and see if there is any Historical background to the song and post if there is. Thanks for the interesting angle. regards, Adrian. (folkbloke)