In this collection we have adopted the versions of Scott and [Motherwell], giving Jamieson's translation of Skjœn Anna [in our Appendix].
"It's narrow, narrow, make your bed,
And learn to lie your lane;
For I'm gaun o'er the sea, Fair Annie,
A braw bride to bring hame.
Wi' her I will get gowd and gear;
Wi' you I ne'er got nane.
"But wha will bake my bridal bread,
Or brew my bridal ale?
And wha will welcome my brisk bride,
That I bring o'er the dale?"—10
"It's I will bake your bridal bread,
And brew your bridal ale;
And I will welcome your brisk bride,
That you bring o'er the dale."
"But she that welcomes my brisk bride15
Maun gang like maiden fair;
She maun lace on her robe sae jimp,
And braid her yellow hair."—
"But how can I gang maiden-like,
When maiden I am nane?20
Have I not born seven sons to thee,
And am with child again?"—
She's ta'en her young son in her arms,
Another in her hand;
And she's up to the highest tower,25
To see him come to land.
"Come up, come up, my eldest son,
And look o'er yon sea-strand,
And see your father's new-come bride,
Before she come to land."—30
"Come down, come down, my mother dear,
Come frae the castle wa'!
I fear, if langer ye stand there,
Ye'll let yoursell down fa'."—