We received a lovely postcard from Len Graham, who had heard we were looking for information on it
He provided us with an original text of the song along with information on it.
Len and Cathal McConnell recorded it from Barney McManus of Boho, in Co. Fermanagh some time in the 1960s; Cathal gave it to Siney Crotty and "it took flight from there".
Our collection should be going up on the Clare County library website in September (if we ever stop finding songs we have missed!!)
Thanks for all the invaluable help.
Below is the full text of Siney's rendition, adapted slightly from the original singing recorded by Len and Cathal
Jim Carroll
PS
Don't suppose anybody knows a song about a man with a nose like an elephant - might have to start another thread?

Edward the Beauty and Boast of Athlone
Siney Crotty
Ross, Kilbaha
Recorded in London, date unknown
Carroll Mackenzie Collection

YOU NYMPHS AND YOU SWAINS, sympathise in my sorrow
And pity a poor maid that's sorely oppressed
For since Cupid first stung me with his KILLING arrow,   
My mind is tormented, I can't find no rest.
I am hourly repining and constantly crying
For a handsome young fellow as ever was known.
For since Adam's creation, you'll find in no nation,
A youth like young Edward, the boast of Athlone.

In the spring when the small birds they all join together,
They would charm the green groves and valleys likewise.
They re-freshen breezes to note the mild weather
The violets to spring and the primroses to rejoice
It was in that very season, a young man most pleasing,
His charm and affection unto me made known.
I vow and declare, my heart did ensnare,
Young Edward the beauty and boast of Athlone.

As I happened to stray, by the clear river Shannon,
Where I first saw young Edward going out for a stroll.
He saluted me most kindly, crying 'Dearest Mary Mahon',
I hope I can escort you through the dark shady groves.
I hope you won't refuse me, I pray, do excuse me.'
Those words he repeated in his soft limber tone.
I being sorely bent on my course straight I went
With young Edward, the beauty and boast of Athlone.

I courted young Edward for better than three years,
A most modest young fellow as ever drew breath.
Until a comrade of mine on us did discover,
And soon put an end to our joy and our MIRTH.
She told his aged mother that we went together,
And to have us parted, as ever was known,
It's in grief I do relate it, the job HAVE completed,
And banished young Edward, the boast of Athlone.

But since he is gone, may kind fortune shine on him,
And keep him from harm, no matter where he'll roam.
May providence protect him, and angels may guard him
Until he's safe landed on a far distant shore.
And may that unhappy girl who banished my pearl,
May she feel her remorse until her last dying moan.
And likewise his aged mother who took delight forever
And banish young Edward, the boast of Athlone.