This song was re-introduced to the Irish repertory by Sean Corcoran who learned it from the singing of Mary Ann Carolan. Barry Gleeson probably learned it from Sean, while Norma almost certainly has it from the Topic record of Mary Ann. However, both Sean and Mary Ann sing "stronger than cream."

There is a version, printed by J&M Robertson, Saltmarket, Glasgow and dated 1804, in the British Library - 11606 aa 23 (87). It's considerably longer - 18 four line verses and the first of them is:

My name is bold Dougherty from the north country
Where there's a still upon every stream
Drawer be quicker and come in a minute
And fill us a pitcher far stronger than cream.

There is evidence of some textual confusion but "stronger than cream" appears to have more sanction than modern understanding would allow it. I must say I have no difficulty with Mrs Carolan's text.