Joe you don't have to answer that e-mail. I just got the answer to my question.

The version I wrote on Notewothy is how I hear the original version of the song, that one done by the cast of the "Rise and Follies Of Cape Breton Island" circa 1977-1979. This stage show, which has since elvolved into the "Cape Breton Summertime Revue" is a celebration of Cape Breton music and humour. Back in the late 70's Allister's wife, Beverly, and Raylene Rankin, of the Rankin Family were featured.

If anyone is interested, I also have the lyrics availabe in French and Gaelic.