Dear Mr.Sacurai;
                   I found something by you dated, 28,apr,03.
I wish to thank you for the fine information. I am a collector
of folk songs for 30 years. Your info is a treasure to me.
I thought you might be interested in what I know about the subject of
ROSIN THE BOW. First you may add to your list of American songs.
"Down by the Willow Garden".The earliest song was called "The Gentle Maiden" translated into English from the Gailic around the 13th century.The music at the time was ancient. A harp tune from at least as early as the 7th century. The nearest in melody would be the Irish version of Rosin the Bow. If you hear from Mr.Gargoyle, please thank him also for me.If either of you want to have the words to The Gentle Maiden it is yours for the asking.I am always looking for more words. I am including my e-mail address.