I remember some years ago trying to find a source for this ballad using such Longford/Sligo (where the song is usually located) experts as Bairbre Ní Fhloinn, who in her turn contacted local historians and librarians. Unfortunately nothing turned up.

If you check 'The Mount Callan Garland' (p 36) you will see that I cover the motif of the corpse which bleeds again when approached by its killer (Motif no.D1318.5.2.)

'Pat O' Brien' and its near relative 'The Old Oak Tree' are sung traditionally throughout Ireland. The lack of references to Irish versions of ballads in Laws and Bronson reflects the lack of study of the field of Irish song by British and American scholars rather than the lack of material.

See you in Miltown, Martin.

Tom