meself,
Good to read what you have written. Your explanation to me fits perfectly and as well I can't figure out where the Portuguese fit into the song.
I probably heard them at some house party that I was playing at. However I have a feeling that in one of my downeast cassettes it was also sung. I still have more to go through but a Newfoundland singer is where I am leaning toward. I wrote to George Seto - Chebucto but haven't heard from him as yet.
This is one that and answer is out there and will be found.
Adrien