Mary Riley One evening, as I went a walking, Conversing with me and my dear, Her old aged father stood in ambush And heard the fond words that we said. A gold ring she put on my finger, Saying, "Johnny, keep me in your mind, And if ever you roam from this island, I hope you'll not leave me behind." They kissed and shook hands and they parted, Expecting to meet the next noon; But hard was the heart of her father, He locked my love up in her room. With a coach of police he got ready, He swore to the ring on my hand. And for the squire's young daughter I'm afraid a hard trial I'Il stand. But Mary being constant and loyal, Straightway to my trial she came; She was dressed like some lady of honour, The best of gold robes she had on. Which made all the nobles to wonder, And all the grand jury to stare, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . It's then she addressed the jury, Those words unto them she did say: "In case you love a young female, Why should you be banished away? "It's seven long years we've been courting; I own that I gave him my heart; And there's nothing but death will relieve me If Jimmy and I has to part." Now this young couple are married, Their fortune on both sides paid down; They live on the banks of the Shannon, Although they've caused manys a frown. They live on the banks of the Shannon In love and sweet unity. Here's a health unto young Mary Riley, For loyal she's proved to be! From Ballads and Sea Songs from Nova Scotia, Mackenzie Collected from David Rogers DT #581 Laws M16 RG oct96
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