Hmmm, thnks all for your interesting replies on 'Quines'. I think i'll go along with you Mac Tattie, Nutty, & Susanne i.e quines meaning women. The Watersons in their version pronounce the word 'quines' as to ryme with wines so i suppose it can be either queens or quines. Errr, i think 'Here the news and swap family information' comes from the song 'The Travelling People' Cheers!