When First I Went to Caledonia (from Songs & Stories from Deep Cove Cape Breton) is a song in 2 parts really. The first 5 verses are lyrics shared elsewhere...

1. I wish I were a maid again
2. The sweetest apple will soon get rotten
3. If I had pen from Pennsylvania
4. I wish I were on the deepest ocean
5. I'd lay my head on a cask of brandy.

The last 4 comprise a cohesive narrative song...

1. When first I went to Caledonia
2. It was I and my brother Charlie
3. I went to Normans for a pair of brochans
4. I went over to their big harbour.

I think it's interesting (not fascinating, just interesting) that the floaters appear at the beginning of the song rather than at the end.

Regarding Peggy Gordon, is it safe to say that the choices are...

1. Product of New York vaudeville stage, recovered almost intact in West Virginia, went into tradition in Nova Scotia aquiring floating verses and a newer name, or...

2. Nova Scotia traditional song which was brought to New York vaudeville stage, then turned up almost intact in WV.

Any thoughts?

All the best,
Dan