Hi,

I have finally settled on a version I want to sing.

I have a few queries regarding the lyrics.

Can anyone shed any light on the meaning of the following lines (full lyrics at end of posting).

"Sweet banners seldom ride."

"Go hide your clothes ye roses red,
And droop ye lilies fair"

"Then spied in my arms, and all her charms,"


THE FOGGY DEW

Oh, down the hill I went one morn,
A lovely maid I spied.
Her hair was bright as the dew that went,
Sweet banners seldom ride.
And where go ye, sweet maid, said I,
And she raised her eyes of blue.
And smiled and said, The boy I wed,
I'm to meet in the foggy dew.

Go hide your clothes ye roses red,
And droop ye lilies fair.
For you must pale for very shame,
Before a maid so fair.
Said I, Dear maid, will you be my bride,
She raised her eyes of blue.
And smiled and said, The boy I wed,
I'm to meet in the foggy dew.

Oh, down the hill I went one morn,
A-singing I did go.
Oh, down the hill I went one morn,
She answered sweet and low.
Yes, I will be your own dear bride,
And I know that you'll be true.
Then spied in my arms, and all her charms,
Were hidden in the foggy dew.