Child gives a collation of seven versions secured in America of late years, in each of which the name of Lord Randal has become corrupted to ‘Tiranti.’
The antiphonetic form of the ballad is popular, as being dramatic and suitable for singing. Compare Edward, also a dialogue between mother and son.
LORD RANDAL
1.
‘O where hae ye been, Lord Randal, my son?
O where hae ye been, my handsome young man?’
‘I hae been to the wild wood; mother, make my bed soon,
For I’m weary wi’ hunting, and fain wald lie down.’
2.