I was curious about this legend or ballad, so that as soon as I got the first volume of the English and Scottish Popular Ballads, I looked to see what Prof. Child would say. A bit disappointing.

Generally I agree with Malcom that you should not read too much into songs (or legends. But it seemed to me this was a very interesting kind of religious sensibility. As if Judas was as good a disciple as any, and was forced into a preordained role against his will. Jesus gave him thirty pieces of silver, to buy dinner for the apostles, and told him, go by such a route, perhaps you will meet your relatives. Jesus, of course, must know what will happen, for he knows Peter will deny Him. And Judas meets his sister, who seemingly steals the silver. And Judas tears out his hair. And he will betray his Master, but only in return for the same thirty pieces he lost. That isn't the Biblical Judas, but it is darkly fascinating.

Does anyone know more about this legend? Has anyone more recent than Prof. Child considered it?

I have no idea what "thirty pieces of silver" meant in biblical times; my source says Matthew got the sum from Zechariah. But in the Thirteenth Century, where the ballad seems to have originated, thirty Shillings was a whole lot of money.