Umm Jim (Dixon)... I kind of think that the broadside dated 1842 was most likely in praise of Queen Victoria.. a clue is in the line: "Here's to Albert, their offspring an' a', an' a,"

And it goes on about Edinburgh being the "Athens of the North" - a description which was only really applicable after the building of the New Town.


So - attractive as it might seem to have a more ancient pedigree for the song.. I fear not.