There are versions of this song, where the ghost of Lost Jimmy Whelan comes back to tell the fair maiden that they are both better off now that he is no longer burdened with the cares of this world.
I recorded this for the Folk Den just minutes after hearing of the unfortunate death of Bob Gibson. If it hadn't been for Bob, I might never have learned this, or any other folk song.
Thank you Bob, for everything!
Lyrics:
Am G F E7
All alone as I strayed by the banks of the river
C Dm Am
Watching the moonbeams as evening drew neigh
Am G F E7
All alone as I rambled, I spied a fair damsel
C Dm Am
Weeping and wailing with many a sigh.
All alone as I strayed by the banks of the river
C Dm Am
Watching the moonbeams as evening drew neigh
Am G F E7
All alone as I rambled, I spied a fair damsel
C Dm Am
Weeping and wailing with many a sigh.
Weeping for one who is now lying lowly
Mourning for one whom no mortal can save
As the foaming dark waters flow silently o'er him
Onward they sweep over young Jimmy's grave
Oh Jimmy why can't you tarry here with me
Not leave me alone all distracted in pain
But since death is the dagger which has cut us asunder
Then wide is the gulf, love between you and I
All alone as I strayed by the banks of the river
Watching the moonbeams as evening drew neigh
All alone as I rambled, I spied a fair damsel
Weeping and wailing with many a sigh.