Hi,

Does anyone know if Bob Dylan took his version from Paul Clayton's "Polly Van" (Bay State Ballads FW02106 / FA 2106)? Where did Clayton get his version? (text below)

All ye brave huntsmen who follow the gun,
Beware of a shooting at the setting of the sun,
For her true love went a-hunting and he shot in the dark,
But, oh, and alas, Polly Van was his mark.

Refrain: For she'd her apron wrapped about her and he took her for a swan,
But, oh, and alas, it was she, Polly Van.

He run up beside her when he found it was she,
His legs they grew weak, his eyes scarce could see,
He embraced her in his arms when he found she was dead,
And a fountain of tears for his true love he shed.

Refrain:

He took her in his arms and home ran he,
Crying '·Father, dear father, I've shot fair Polly;
I've shot that fair female in the bloom of her life,
And I always intended to make her my wife."

Refrain:

At midnight in his chamber Polly Van did appear,
Crying "Jimmy, dear Jimmy, you have nothing to fear,
But stay in your country till your trial comes on,
And you shall not be convicted for what you have done."

Refrain:

In the midst of his trial Polly Van did appear,
Crying, "Uncle, dear uncle, Jimmy Randall must be clear."
The judges and lawyers stood around in a row,
Polly Van in the middle like a fountain of snow.

Refrain:

[Richie]