sorry bout that - I wasn't playing the sympathy card -honest.

I received nothing but kindness from Ewan and Peggy. iloved her instrumental and songwriting work. that autoharp thing she did on Peggy Gordon was a particular favourite. her guitar part for just as the tide was flowing ...and that song

the rambling man was weary and wet
down by the side of the fire she set

they thought I was bonkers, but a lot of people have come to that conclusion. I remember feeling really sorry for them when Argo decided to pulp all the copies of the radio ballads - they wouldn't sell them Ewan to sell at gigs. Apparently it didn't fit with the label's new image.

my point was that Ralph had no real expectation of great wealth when he must have been soaking up folksongs like a sponge. he and his disciples are part of the continuum, the same artistic movement that weall are engaged in. I love his industry and devotion to the craft.

going back to your earlier comment about the well below the valley - I always associated it with John Reilly - did you say that someone had now claimed authorship?

as for my wife - we are in crisis at the moment - bad reaction to an anti inflammatory. things are never less than iffy - this week they're in meltdown. I value your friendships.