I like to think of these versions as all relating to the same folk theme. Here we have a theme of crossing a river which can be extended to include such songs as 'Waters of Tyne' and even 'Running Bear'.
I suppose the theme must have been quite widespread in times when bridges were few and far between.
Hey Bill D. MY Dad used to say that as well so I suppose that saying itself is another piece of folklore.
And... here - stuff - Polish Notation - that - start - don't:)
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sj