This has been fascinating from the first minute that Frank posted a number of years ago. Thanks to Martin, George (How are you, my friend?), Frank for their scholarship and determination.

As I listen to the Black Sheep tape, and the way it is sung, the meter of the tune almost sounds like a chant. Perhaps, Martin, it is simply, as Robbie says, a metered cadence style song used in times gone by for the sharing of a good yarn? Seems odd that one can't find the beginning in any other sense.

Mick