The only version of this song I know is the one by Len Graham of Skylark. It has one more verse than the version in the DT (verse 2 below), and there are two place-names I can't make out. Can anyone supply them, perhaps, and also some more background over and above what's in the DT and in Skylark's sleevenotes?

[1992:] Mullaghbawn is a mountainy parish in South Armagh and this is one of the few songs in Ireland which praises a landlord! It dates from the latter part of the 18th century, an era of absentee landlordism, but Richard Jackson, a local squire, lived on his estate, tilled his land and encouraged his tenants to do the same. In his will he provided for the poorest and oldest of his tenants and to this day people in the district benefit from his bequests. It is thought that the 'heroes' mentioned in the song were taking part in the Rising of 1798. (Notes Skylark, 'Light and Shade')

On a Monday morning early my wandering steps they'd lead me
Down by a farmer's station, through meadows and green lawn
I heard great lamentation, the small birds they were warbling
We'll have no more engagements with the boys of Mullaghbawn

I beg your pardon, ladies, but grant me this one favour
I hope it is no treason on you I now must call
I'm condoling late and early, my heart is near to breaking
All for a noble lady that lives near to Fennay (??)

Squire Jackson he's unequalled for honour and for reason
He never turned traitor nor betrayed the rights of man
But now we are in danger from a vile deceiving stranger
Who has ordered transportation for the boys of Mullaghbawn

As our heroes crossed the ocean I'm told the ship in motion
Did stand in great commotion as if the seas ran dry
With the trout and salmon gaping the cuckoo has left her station
Farewell to old Killebigh(??) and the hills of Mullaghbawn

To end my lamentation we're all in consternation
For want of education I here must end my song
Who cares for recreation without consideration
We're sent for transportation from the hills of Mullaghbawn