Malinky didn't record an arrangement of the Ravenscroft set, but a relatively modern collation made from a 19th century Scottish fragment and (probably) part of a Derbyshire text, together with some modernised and Scotticised verses from elsewhere. Very good, I expect, but not much help for Ian.

Tim's recording is an arrangement of Ravenscroft. The song has been interpreted by a great many people over the years, in all manner of styles. As a rule, it's a good idea to have some understanding of what you are singing; so I can't agree entirely with Tim's first post.

Meaning, though, is often subjective (and particularly in cases like this) so the important thing is to arrive at a personal understanding, and I expect that we would all agree on that as a general principle; though we might not agree on details of interpretation.

I certainly doubt that Ian is right about the song, but that doesn't matter if it makes it meaningful for him. Do check those references I gave, though, if you have access to a good library; you really will find them illuminating.