F.
In a letter to Scott, January 3, 1803, Laidlaw gives some account of the ballad sung by Walter Grieve, and cites some verses from recollection, which, not unnaturally, differ from what he afterwards took down in writing.
“He likewise sung part of a very beautiful ballad which I think you will not have seen. As a punishment for her inconstancy, the Devil is supposed to come and entice a young woman from her husband, in the form of her former lover. The tune is very solemn and melancholy, and the effect is mixed with a considerable proportion of horror. I remember but very few verses. He prevails upon her to go abroad [aboard?] to hear his musicians, after upbraiding her
‘I might hae marrit a king’s daughter, but
I mindit my love for thee.’
“The description of her setting her child on the nurse’s knee and bidding him farewell is waesome, but I have forgot it.”
She set her foot into the ship, to hear the music play;
The masts war o the beaten goud, and the sails o the silk sae gay.
They hadna saild a league thrae land, a league but barely three,
Till drearie grew his countenance, and drumlie grew his ee.