English & Other 213A. Sir James the Ross
CONTENTS:
Gleanings of Scarce Old Ballads- Peter Buchan 1825: with explanatory notes: [Buchan's text is Bruce's original version published in 1774.]
Sir James the Rose, (modern way.)
This is one of the most beautiful ballads that I know. It is also called the Buchanshire Tragedy, and said to have been written by Michael Bruce, a young man of great poetical abilities, who died in a consumption in the 21st year of his age. A copy of this ballad appeared in the Annual Register in the year 1776, which, with the copy in his own poems, differ considerably from every other that I have seen, and some even prior to the earliest edition of his works. In an old collection of ballads, I have found one called Elfrida and Sir James of Perth, which resemble it very much; and, I have every reason to think it is the older of the two, although they both include in their historical part, some of the circumstances that befall the heroes of the poems at the memorable battle of Flodden-field, where Scotland lost her king and the flower of her nobility.
At the Abbey of Deer, about ten miles from Peterhead, is still pointed out to the curious, the trysting thorn; or, in other words, the blooming saugh-tree on the bank of the burn, where these youthful lovers, the brave Sir James the Rose, and and Matilda, lord Buchan's beautiful daughter, were wont to meet to tell their tender tales.
Sir James the Rose
(MODERN WAY.)
Of all the Scottish northern chiefs,
Of high and warlike name,
The bravest was Sir James the Rose,
A knight of meikle fame.
His growth was like the tufted fir,
That crowns the mountain't, brow;
And waving o'er his shoulders broad,
His locks of yellow flew.
The chieftian of the brave clan Rose,
A firm undaunted band;
Five hundred warriors drew their swords
Beneath his high command.
In bloody fight thrice had he stood,
Against the English keen;
E'er two and twenty op'ning springs
This blooming youth had seen.
The fair Matilda dear he lov'd,
A mind of beauty rare;
Even Marg'ret on the Scottish throne,
Was never half so fair.
Lang had he woo'd, lang she refus'd,
Wi' seeming scorn and pride;
Yet aft her eyes confess'd the love,
Her fearful words deny'd.
At last she bless'd his well-tried faith,
Allow'd his tender claim;
She vow'd to him her virgin heart,
And own'd an equal flame.
Her father, Buchan's cruel ford,
Their passion disapprove,
And bade her wed Sir John the Graeme,
And leave the youth she lov'd.
Ae night they met, as they were wont,
Deep in a shady wood,
Where on a bank, beside the burn,
A blooming saugh-tree stood.
Conceal'd among the under-wood,
The crafty Donald lay,
The brother of Sir John the Graeme,
To hear what they would say.
When thus the maid began:—My sire
Your passion disapproves,
And bids me wed Sir John the Graeme:
So here must end our loves.
My father's will mast be obey'd,
Nought boots rae to withstand;
Some fairer maid in beauty's bloom.
Must bless thee wi' her hand.
Matilda soon shall be forgot,
And from thy mind defac'd:
But may that happiness be thine
Which I can never taste.
What do I hear? is this thy vow?
Sir James the Rose replied;
And will Matilda wed the Graeme,
Though sworn to be my bride?
His swotfd shall sooner pierce my heart
Than reave me of thy channs.
Then clasp'd her to his beating breast.
Fast lock'd into his arms.
I spake to try thy love, she said:
I'll ne'er wed man but thee;
My grave shall be my bridal'bed,
E'er Graeme my husband be.
Take then, dear youth, this faithful kiss,
In witness of my troth;
And every plague become my lot
That day I break my oath!
They parted thus: the sun was set:
Up hasty Donald flies;
Come turn thee, turn thee, beardless youth,
He loud insulting cries.
Soon turn'd about the fearless chief,
And soon his sword he drew;
For Donald's blade before his breast,
Had pierc'd his tartans through.
This for my brother's slighted love,
His wrongs sit on my arm.
Three paces back, the youth retir'd,
And sav'd himself frae harm.
Returning swift, his hand he rear'd
Frae Donald' had above.
And through the brain and crashing bones,
His sharp-edg'd weapon drove.
He stagg'rin reel'd; then tumbled down
A lump of breathless clay:
So fall my foes, quo' valiant Rose,
And stately strode away.
Through the Green-wood he quickly hied
Unto Lord Buchan's hall;
And at Matilda's window stood,
And thus began to call,—
Art thou asleep, Matilda dear?
Awake, 'my love, awake:
Thy luckless lover on the calls,
A long farewell to take.
For I have slain fierce Donald Grime;
His blood is on my sword;
And distant are my faithful men,
Nor can assist their lord.
To Sky I'll now direct my way,
Where my brave brothers bide.
And raise the valiant of the Isles
To combat on my side.
0 do not so the maid replies;
With me till' morning stay;
For dak and dreary is the night,
And dangerous is the way.
All night I'll witch thee in the park;
My faithful paire I'll send,
To run and raise the Rose's clan,
Their master to defend.
Beneath a bush he laid him down,
And wrapp'd him in his plaid, While trembling for her lover's fate
At distance stood the maid. Swift ran the page o'er hill and dale,
Till in a lonely glen He met the furious Sir John the Graeme,
With twenty of his men.
Where goest thou, little page? he said,
So late, who didst thou send? I go to raise the Rose's clan,
Their master to defend: For he hath slain fierce Donald Graeme;
His blood is on his sword; And far, far distant are his men,
That should assist their lord.
And has he skin my brother dear?
The furious Grseme replies. Dishonour blast my name, but he
By me e'er morning dies! Tell me where is Sir James the Rose . I will thee well reward. He sleeps into lord Buchan's park; Matilda is his guard.
They spurr'd their steeds in furious mood,
A»d scour'd along the lee; They reach'd lord Buchau's lofty tow'rs
By dawning of the day. Matilua stood without the gate;,
To whom thus.Graeme did. say, Saw you !Sir James the Rose last night?
Or did he pass this way?
Last day at noon, Matilda said*
Sir James the Rose pass'd byt He furious prick'd his sweaty steed, And onwards fast didhye: By this time he's at Edinburgh town If man and horse hold good— Your page then lied who said he was 'Kuw sleeping in the wood.
She wrung her hands and tore her hair,
Brave Rose thou art betray'di And ruin'd by those means, she cried',
From whence I hop'd thine aid: By this the valiant knight awak'd,
The virgin's shrieks he heard; And up lie rote and drew his sword;
When the fierce band appeared.
Your sword last night my brother slew;
His biood yet dims its shine: But e'er the rising of the sun,
Your blood shall shine on mines You word it well, the chief replied, But deeds approve the man; Set by your men, and hand to hand; We'll try what valour can,
Oft boastmg hides a coward's heart;
My weighty sw'qrcl'yqu Fear,'" Which shone in front in Flowden-field, When you'kepTinthe rear. With dauntless step Ije forward strode, And dar'd him to the' fight: Then Graeme gave back and fear'd his arm. For well' hV kn6# its 'might. '' -'i
Four of his men, the bravest four,
Sunk down beneath his sword: But still he scorn'd the poor revenge,
And fought their haughty \6rd'.:' Behind him basely came the Graeme',
And wound him in the side: Out spouting came the purple gore.
And all his tartans dye3.
But yet his sword ne'er quate the grip,
Nor dropt he to the ground, Till thro' his en'my's heart'his steel Had forc'd a mortal wound. Grasme, like a tree with wind o'erthrowD. Fell breathless on the clay; And down beside him sunk the Rose, Who faint and dying lay;"''
The said Matilda saw him fall:
O spare his life! she cried; Lord Buchan's daughter begs his life; Let her not be denied. Her well-known voice the hero heard: He rais'd his death clos'd eyes,'"' And fix'd them on the weepmg maid. And weakly thus replies':—;"'
In vain Matilda begs the life
By death's arrest denied: My race is run—adieu, my love— Then cios'd his eyes, and died. The sword yet warm from his left side With frantic hand she drew: I come, Sir James the R ose, she cried, I come to follow you!
She lean'd the hilt against the ground. And bar'd her snowy breast; Then fell upon her lover's sword, And sunk to endless rest.
-----------------
Broadside ballad entitled 'Sir James the Ross'
Commentary
Verse 1: 'Of all the Scottish northern chiefs, / Of high and warlike fame, / The bravest was Sir James the Ross, / A knight of meikle fame.' It was published by Sanderson of Edinburgh.
Without at least an initial attached to the name Sanderson, it is difficult to know exactly which printer is mentioned here and, therefore, even more difficult to give this piece a time frame. It could be one of the Sanderson family associated with the Edinburgh Poet's Box. The text is about Sir James Ross - the 'the' in the title is to give the name a highland air, as this is how it would have been translated from Gaelic - and his love Matilda. The whole piece finishes with a 'Romeo and Juliet'-esque ending as Matilda throws herself on the sword which has just killed her lover James.
The Edinburgh Poet's Box was in operation from around 1852 until about 1910. William Sanderson and from 1867 his son John had premises in the Canongate. The business passed over to John?s brother Charles in 1902. Few of the Sanderson broadsides bear the name Poet's Box, but it is certain than the shop became known in Edinburgh at the Poet's Box. It is not clear what the connection between the different Poet's Boxes were. They almost certainly sold each other's sheets. It is known that John Sanderson in Edinburgh often wrote to the Leitches in Glasgow for songs and that later his brother Charles obtained copies of songs from the Dundee Poet's Box. There was also a Poet's Box in Belfast from 1846 to 1856 at the address of the printer James Moore, but it is not known whether there was any connection between this enterprise and the Poet's Boxes in Scotland.
Early ballads were dramatic or humorous narrative songs derived from folk culture that predated printing. Originally perpetuated by word of mouth, many ballads survive because they were recorded on broadsides. Musical notation was rarely printed, as tunes were usually established favourites. The term 'ballad' eventually applied more broadly to any kind of topical or popular verse.
SIR JAMES THE ROSS. Probable period of publication: 1830-1840 shelfmark: RB.m.143(157)
Of all the Scottish northern chiefs,
Of high and warlike same.
The bravest was Sir James Ross.
A knight of meikle fame.
His growth was like the tufted fir
Which crowns yon mountain s brow.
And, waving o'er his shoulders broad.
His locks of yellow flew.
The chieftain of the brave clan Ross,
A firm undaunted band,
Five hundred warriors drew their swords
Beneath bis high command.
Thrice he had stood the bloody fight
Against the English keen.
Ere two-and-twenty opening springs
His blooming youth bad seen.
The fair Matilda dear he loved,
A maid of beauty rare ;
Even Margaret or, our Scottish throne
Was never half so fair.
Lang he had woo'd, lang she refused.
With seeming scorn and pride ;
Yet alt her eyes confess'd the tale
Her faithless tongue deny'd.
At length, pleased with his well-tired faith,
She allow d his tender claim ;
She vow'd to him her virgin heart.
And own'd a mntual flame.
Her father, Buchan's cruel lord,
Her passion disapproved,
And bade her wed Sir John the Grahame,
And leave the youth she loved.
At night they met, as they were went,
Within a shadey wood,
Where. on a bank, beside a burn,
A blooming saugh tree stood.
Conceal'd amaug the underwood
The crafty Donald lay,
The brother of sir John the Grahame,
To hear what they might say.
When thus the maid began, "My sire
Your passion disapproves.
And bids me wed Sir John the Grahame;
So here must end our loves.
My father's will must be obey'd.
Nought boots me to withstand :
Some fairer maid, in beauty's bloom,
Must bless you with her hand.
Matilda soon shall be forgot.
And from thy mind effaced :
But may that happiness be thine,
Which I can never taste."
" What do I hear? Is this thy vow ?''
Sir James the Ross replied ;
And will Matilda wed the Grahame?
Though sworn to be my bride.
His sword shall sooner pierce my heart,
Than 'reave me of these charms!"
Then clasp'd her to his beating breast,
Fast lock'd her in his arms.
" I spake to try thy love !" said she,
I'll ne'er wed man but thee:
The grave shall be my bridal bed,
Ere Grahame my husband be.
Take then, dear youth, this faithful kiss,
In witness of my troth ;
And every plague become my lot,
That day I break my oath.
They parted thus, the sun was set;
Up hastily Donald flies.
"And, Turn thee, turn thee, beardless youth!"
He loud insulting cries.
Soon turn'd about the fearless chief,
And soon his sword he drew :
For Donald's blade, before his breast.
Had pierced his tartans through.
" This for my brother's slighted love!
His wrongs sit on my arm."
Three paces back the youth retired.
To save himself from harm.
Returning swift. his hand he rear'd
From Donald's head above.
And through his brains and crashing bones
His sharp-edged weapon drove.
He stagger'd ? reel'd?then tumbled down
A lump of breatbless clay ;
" So fall my foes !" quoth valiant Ross,
And stately rode away.
Through the green wood he quickly hied
Unto Lord Buchan's hall.
And at Matilda's widow stood,
And thus began to call :?
" Art thon asleep. Matilda dear ?
Awake ! my love, awake !
Thy luckless lover calls on thee,
A long farwell to take.
For I have slain fierce Donald Grahame?
His blood is on my sword?
And far far distant are my men,
For to protect their lord.
To Skye I'il now direct my way,
Where my two brothers bile.
And raise the valiant of the Isle
To combat on my side."
" O do not so !" the maid replied,
" With me till morning stay ;
For dark and dreary is the road,
And dangerous is the way.
All night I'll watch you in the park?
My faithful page I'll send.
To run and raise the Ross's clan,
Their master to defend.
Beneath a bush he laid him down.
And row'd him in his plaid ;
While, trembling for,her lover's sate.
At distance stood the maid.
Swift ran the page o'er hill and dale.
Till, in a lowly glen,
He met the furious Sir John Grahame.
With twenty of his.men.
" Where goest thou, little page ?" said he,
" So late who did thee send?"
" I go to raise the Ross's clan.
Their master to detend ;
For he has slain fierce Donald Grahame?
His blood is on his sword ?
And far far distant are his men.
For to protect their lord."
" And has he slain my brother dear?"
The furious Grahame replies ;
Dishonour blast my name! but he
By me ere morning die.
Tell me where is Sir James the Ross?
I will thee well reward "
" He sleeps into Lord Buchan's park?
Matilda is h s guard."
They prick'd their steeds in furious mood,
And scour'd along the lea.
And reach'd unto Lord Buchan'n park
By dawning of the day.
Matilda stood without the gate.
To whom thus Grabame did say?
" Saw ye Sir James the Ross last night?
Or did he pass this way ?"
Last day at noon," Matilda said,
Sir James the Ross pass'd by ;
He urged his steed in furious mood,
And onward fast did hie :
By this time he's at Edinburgh.
If man and horse hold good."
" Your page then lied, who said he was
Now sleeping in your wood.''
She wrung her hands, she tore her hair?
'Brave Ross thou art betray'd !
And ruin'd by those means," she cried,
" From whence I hoped thine aid."
By this the valiant knight awoke.
The virgin's shrieks he heard.
And up he rose and drew his sword,
Ere the fierce band appear'd.
" Your sword last night my brother slow.
His blood yet dims its shine :
But before the rising of the sun
Your blood shall reck on mine."
" You word it well." the chief replies.
" But deeds approve the man ;
Set bye your men?and. hand to hand,
We'll try whit valour can.
Oft bonsting hides a coward's heart;
My trusty sword you fear,
Which shone in front at Floddeu-Field,
While yours kept in the rear."
Then forward strode in dauntless mood,
And dared him to the fight:
The Grahame gave back? he fear'd his arm,
For well he knew its might.
Four of his man?the bravest four?
Sank down beneath his sword ;
Yet still he scorn this base revenge,
And sought their haughty lord-
Behind him basely came the Grahame,
And wounded him in the side;
Out spouting came the purple tide.
And all his garments dyed.
Yet of his sword ne'er quit the grip,
Nor dropt he to the ground,
Till through his hateful enemy's heart
He pierced a mortal wound.
Grahame. like a tree by wind o'erthrown.
Fell lifeless on the clay ;
While down beside him sank the Ross,
Who faint and dving lay.
The sad ! Matilda saw him fall.
Oh. spare bis life !" she cried ;
Lord Buchan's daughter craven his life ;
Let, her not be denied."
Her well-known voice the hero heard,
And raised his death-closed eyes;
Then fix'd them on the weeping maid,
And weakly thus replies:?
" In vain Matilda begs a life
By death's arrest denied :
My race is race is run:?Adieu !" he cried,
Then closed his eyes and died.
The sword yet warm from his left side
With frantic hand she drew ;
I come ! Sir James the Ross !" she cried,
" I come to follow you."
She lean'd the hilt upon the ground,
And bared her snowy breast,
Then fell upon her lover's face.
And sank to endless rest.
SANDERSON, Printer, Edinburgh.
A varied assortment for the supply for
Hawkers and Travellers.
--------------------------
There are three versions of the song in the Greig-Duncan Folk Song Collection. This is #235A.
SIR JAMES THE ROSE
1. Of all the Scottish northern chiefs
Of high and warlike name
The bravest was Sir James the Rose
A knicht of muckle fame.
2. His growth was like the tufted fir
That crowns the mountain's brow
And waving o'er his shoulders broad
The locks o yellow flew.
3. The chieftain of the brave clan Rose
A firm undaunted band
Five hundred warriors drew their sword
Beneath his high command.
4. In bloody fight thrice had he stood
Against the English keen
Ere twa an twenty opening springs
This blooming youth had seen.
5. The fair Matilda dear he loved
A maid of beauty rare
Ev'n Margaret on the Scottish throne
Was never half so fair.
6. Lang had he wooed lang she refused
With seeming scorn and pride
Yet aft her eyes confessed the love
Her fearful words denied.
7. At last he blessed her well tried faith
Allowed his tender claim
She vowed to him her virgin heart
And owned an equal flame.
8. Her father Buchan's cruel lord
Their passion disapproved
And bade her wed Sir John the Graeme,
And leave the youth she loved.
9. Ae nicht they met as they were wont
Down in a shady wood
Where on a bank beside a burn
A blooming saugh tree stood.
10. Concealed amang the underwood
The crafty Donald lay
The brother o Sir John the Graeme
To hear what they did say.
11. When thus the maid began, My sire,
Our passion disapproves
And bids me wed Sir John the Graeme
So here must end our loves.
12. My father's will must be obeyed
Nought boots me to withstand
Some fairer maid in beauty's bloom
May bless thee with her hand.
13. Matilda soon shall be forgot
And from thy mind effaced
But may that happiness be thine
Which I can never taste.
14. What do I hear is this thy vow
Sir James the Rose replied
And will Matilda wed the Graeme
Though sworn to be my bride.
15. His sword shall sooner pierce my heart
Than reave me o thy charms
Then clasped her to his beating breast
Fast lock'd within his arms.
16. I spake to try thy love she said
I'll ne'er wed man but thee
My grave shall be my bridal bed
Ere Graeme my husband be.
17. Take then dear youth this faithful kiss
In witness of my troth
And every plague become my lot
That day I break my oath.
18. They parted thus the sun was set
Up hasty Donald flies
O turn O turn ye beardless youth
He loud insulting cries.
19. Soon turned about the fearless chief
And soon his sword he drew
For Donald's blade before his breast,
Had pierced his tartans through.
20. This for my brother's slighted love
His wrongs sit on my arm
Three paces back the youth retired
And saved himself from harm.
21. Returning swift his hand he reared
Frae Donald's head above
And through the brain and crashing bones
His sharp edged weapon drove.
22. He staggered reeled then tumbled down
A lump of breathless clay
So fall my foes, said valient Rose,
And stately strode away.
23. Through the green wood he quickly hied
Unto Lord Buchan's hail
And at Matilda's window stood
And thus began to call.
24. Art thou asleep Matilda dear
Awake my love awake
Thy luckless lover on thee calls
A long farewell to take.
25. For I have slain fierce Donald Graeme
His blood is on my sword
And far far distant are my men
That would assist their lord.
26. To Skye I'll now direct my course
Where my brave brothers bide
And raise the valient of the Isles
To combat on my side.
27. O do not so the maid replied
With me till morning stay
For dark and dreary is the nicht
And dangerous is the way.
28. All night I'll watch you in the park
My faithful page I'll send
To go and raise the Rose's clan
Their master to defend.
29. Beneath a bush he laid him down
And wrapped him in his plaid
While trembling for her lover's fate
At distance stood the maid.
30. Swift ran the page o'er hill an dale
Till in a lonely glen
He met the furious Sir John Graeme
With twenty of his men.
31. Where goest thou little page he said
So late who did thee send
I go to raise the Rose's clan
Their master to defend.
32. For he has slain fierce Donald Graeme
His blood is on his sword
And far far distant are his men
That could assist their lord.
33. And has he slain my brother dear
The furious Graeme replies
Dishonour blast my name but he
By me ere morning dies.
34. Tell me where is Sir James the Rose
I will thee well reward
He sleeps into Lord Buchan's park
Matilda is his gaurd.
35. They spurred their steeds in furious mood
And scoured along the lea
They reached Lord Buchan's lofty towers
By the dawning of the day.
36. Matilda stood without the gate
To whoom the Graeme did say
Saw ye Sir James the Rose last night
Or did he pass this way.
37. Last day at noon Matilda said
Sir James the Rose passed by
He furious pricked his sweaty steed
And onward fast did hie.
38. By this time he's in Edinburgh
If man and horse hold good
Your page then lied to me who said
He was sleeping in the wood.
39. She wrung her hands and tore her hair
Brave Rose thou art betrayed
And ruined by those means she cried
From whence I hoped thine aid.
40. With this the valient knight awoke
The virgin's shrieks he heard
And up he rose and drew his sword
When the fierce band appeared.
41. Your sword last night my brother slew
His blood yet dims its shine
And ere the setting of the sun
Your blood shall reek on mine.
42. You word it well the chief replied
But deeds approve the man
Set by your band and hand to hand
Wee'l try what valour can.
43. Oft boasting hides a coward's heart
My weighty sword you fear
It shone in front of Flodden Field
When yours kept in the rear.
44. With dauntless step he forward strode
And dared him to the fight
But Graeme gave back and feared his arm
For well he knew his might.
45. Four of his men the bravest four
Sank down beneath his sword
But still he scorned the poor revenge
And sought their haughty lord.
46. Behind him basely came the Graeme
And pierced him in the side
Out spouting came the purple blood
And all his tartans dyed.
47. But yet his sword quat not the grip
Nor droped he to the ground
Till through and through his enemy's heart
He pierced a mortal wound.
48. Graeme like a tree with wind o'erthrown
Fell breathless on the clay
And down beside him sank the Rose
And faint and dying lay.
49. The sad Matilda saw him fall
Oh spare his life she cried
Lord Buchan's daughter begs his life
Let her not be denied.
50. Her well known voice the hero heard
He raised his death closed eyes
And fixed them on the weeping maid
And weakly thus replies.
51. In vain Matilda begs the life
By death's arrest denied
My race is run adieu my love
And closed his eyes and died.
52. The sword yet warm from his left side
With frantic hands she drew
I come I come Sir James the Rose
I come to follow you.
53. She lent the hilt against the ground
And bared her snowy breast
Then fell upon her lover's face
And sank to endless rest.
Mrs. MARGARET GILLESPIE, Rev. JAMES B. DUNCAN and GEORGE F. DUNCAN
--------------------------
This is #235B from the Greig-Duncan Folk Song Collection. There are some clarifications here that I really like - some parts of the other versions confuse me.
Sir James the Rose
1. Of all the Scottish northern chiefs
Of high and warlike fame,
The bravest was Sir James the Rose
A knight of mickle fame.
2. His growth was like a youthful oak,
That crowns the mountain's brow,
And waving o'er his shoulders broad,
His locks of yellow flew.
3. Wide were his fields, his herds were large,
And large his flocks of sheep,
And the many were his goats and deer,
Upon the mountains steep.
4. The chieftain of the good clan Rose,
A firm and warlike band,
Five hundred warriors drew the sword,
Beneath his high command.
5. In bloody fight thrice had he stood
Against the English keen, -
Ere two and twenty opening springs,
The blooming youth had seen.
6. The fair Matilda dear he loved,
A maid of beauty rare
Even Margaret on the Scottish throne,
Was never half so fair.
7. Long had he wooed, long she refused,
With seeming scorn and empty pride,
Yet oft her eyes confessed the love,
Her fearful words denied.
8. At length she blessed his well-tried love,
Allowed his tender claim,
She vowed to him her tender heart,
And owned an equal flame.
9. Her father, Buchan's cruel lord,
Their passion disapproved,
And bade her wed Sir John the Graeme,
And leave the youth she loved.
10. One night they met as they were wont,
Deep in a shady wood,
Where on the bank beside the burn,
A blooming saugh-tree stood
11. Concealed among the underwood,
The crafty Donald lay,
The brother of Sir John the Graeme,
To hear what they might say.
12. And thus the maid began "My sire
Our passion disapproves,
But bids me wed Sir John the Graeme,
So here must end our loves.
13. "My father's will must be obeyed,
Naught boots me to withstand,
Some fairer maid in beauty's bloom,
Shall bless you with her hand.
14. "Soon will Matilda be forgot
And from thy mind effaced,
But may that happiness be thine,
Which I can never taste."
15. "Is this Matilda's vows I hear?"
Sir James the Rose replied,
"And will Matilda wed the Graeme
Though sworn to be my bride?
16. "His sword shall sooner pierce my heart,
Than reave me of thy charms,"
He clasped her to his throbbing breast
Fast locked within his arms.
17. "I spoke to try thy love" she said,
"I'll ne'er wed man but thee.
The grave shail be my bridal bed
Ere Graeme espouses me.
18. "Then take dear youth this faithful kiss,
In witness of my troth,
And every plague become my lot,
That day I break my oath."
19. They parted thus, the sun was set,
Up hasty Donald flies,
And "Turn thee, turn thee, beardless youth,"
He loud insulting cries.
20. Soon turned him round the fearless chief,
And quick his sword he drew,
For Donald's blade before his breast
Had pierced his tartans through.
21. "This for my brother's slighted love,
His wrongs sit on my arm" —
Three paces back the chieftain drew,
And saved himself from harm.
22. Returning, swift his sword he swung,
Fierce Donald's head above,
And through the brain and crashing bone,
His furious weapon drove.
23. Life issued at the wound — he fell,
A lump of lifeless clay,
"So fall my foes," said valiant Rose,
And stately strode away.
24. The green-wood through in haste he passed,
Unto Lord Buchan's hall,
Beneath Matilda's window stood,
And thus on her did call.
25. "Art thou asleep Matilda dear?
Awake my love, awake,
Behold thy lover awaits thee,
Long farewell to take."
26. "For I have slain fierce Donald Graeme,
His blood is on my sword,
And far, far distant are my men,
Nor can defend their lord.
27. "To Skye I will direct my flight
Where my brave brothers bide,
To raise the mighty of the isles,
To combat on my side."
28. "Oh do not so," the maid replied,
With me till morning stay,
For dark and dreary is the night,
And dangerous is the way."
29. "All night I'll watch thee in the park,
My faithful page I'll send
In haste to raise the brave clan Rose
Their master to defend."
30. He laid him down beneath a bush,
And wrapped him in his plaid,
While trembling for her lover's fate,
At a distance stood the maid.
31. Swift ran the page o'er hill and dale,
Till in a lonely glen,
He met the fierce Sir John the Graeme,
With twenty of his men.
32. "Where goest thou little page?" he said
"So late who did thee send?"
"I go to raise the brave clan Rose
Their master to defend.
33. "For he has slain fierce Donald Graeme
His blood is on his sword,
And far, far distant are his men,
Nor can defend their lord."
34. "And has he slain my brother dear?"
The furious chief replies,
"Dishonour blast my name but he
By me ere morning dies."
35. "Say, page, where is Sir James the Rose?
I will thee well reward."
"He sleeps into Lord Buchan's park,
Matilda is his guard."
36. They spurred their steeds and furious flew,
Like lightning o'er the lea,
They reached Lord Buchan's lofty tower
By dawning of the day.
37. Matilda stood without the gate,
Upon a rising ground,
And watched her lover in the dawn,
Her ear hears every sound.
38. "Where sleeps the Rose?" began the Graeme
"Or has the felon fled?
This hand shall lay the caitiff low,
By whom my brother bled."
39 "Last day at noon," Matilda said,
"Sir James the Rose passed by,
Well mounted on his noble steed,
And onward fast did hie."
40. "By this time he's at Edinburgh town,
If horse and man hold good."
"Your page then lied, who said he was
Now sleeping in this wood."
41. She wrung her hands and tore her hair,
"Brave Rose thou art betrayed,
And ruined by the very means
I meant to bring thee aid."
42. And now the valiant knight awoke,
His true-love shrieking heard,
Straight up he rose and drew his sword,
When the fierce band appeared.
43. "Your sword last night my brother slew,
His blood yet dims it shine,
And ere the sun shall gild the morn
Your hood shall reek on mine."
44 "Your words are brave," the chief replied,
"But deeds approve the man,
Set by your men and hand to hand,
We'll try what valour can."
45. With dauntless step he forward strode,
And dared him to the fight,
The Graeme gave back, he feared his arm,
For well he knew his might
46. Four of his men the bravest four,
Went down beneath his sword,
But still he scorned the poor revenge
And sought their haughty lord.
47. Behind him basely came the Graeme,
And pierced him in the side,
Out spouting came the purple stream
And all his tartans dyed.
48. But yet his hand dropped not the sword,
Not sank he to the ground,
Till through his enemy's heart the steel
Had forced a mortal wound.
49. Graeme like a tree by wind o'erthrown
Fell lifeless on the clay,
And down beside sank the Rose,
And faint and dying lay.
50. Matilda saw and fast she ran.
"Oh spare his life," she cried,
Lord Buchan's daughter begs his life,
Let her not be denied."
51. Her well-known voice the hero heard,
And raised his death-closed eyes,
He fixed them on the weeping maid,
And weakly thus replied.
52. "In vain Matilda begs a life,
By death's arrest denied,
My race is run, adieu my love,"
Then closed his eyes and died.
53. The sword yet warm from his left side,
With a . . . hand she drew,
"I come, I come, my love," she cried,
"I come to follow you."
54. The hilt she leaned against the ground,
And bared her snowy breast,
Then fell upon her lover's face,
And sank to endless rest.
GEORGE F. DUNCAN — D
--------------------------
This is #235O from the Greig-Duncan Folk Song Collection - #235C through 235N are tunes only. There is no tune for this one, #235O.
Sir James the Rose
1. Of all the Scottish northern chiefs
Of high and warlike name
The bravest was Sir James the Rose
A knight of muckle fame.
2. His growth was like the youthful oak
That crowns the mountain's brow
And waving owre his shoulders broad
His locks of yellow flew.
3. Wide were his fields, his herds were large
And large his flock of sheep
An' numerous were his goats and deer
Upon the mountain steep.
4. The chieftain of the good clan Rose
A firm and warlike band
Five hundred warriors drew the sword
Beneath his high command.
5. The fair Matilda dear he loved
A maid of beauty rare
Even Margaret on the Scottish throne
Was never half so fair.
6. Long had he woo'd, long she refused
With seeming scorn and pride
Yet oft her eyes declared the love
Her haughty words denied.
7. Her father, Buchan's cruel lord,
Their passion disapproved
He bade her wed Sir John the Graham
And leave the youth she loved.
8. One night they met as they were wont
Deep in a shady wood
Upon the bank beside the burn
A blooming saugh there stood.
9. Concealed beneath the underwood
The crafty Donald lay
A brother to Sir John the Graham
To watch what they might say.
10. Matilda thus began My sire
Our passion disapproves
He bids me wed Sir John the Graham
So here must end our love.
11. My father's will must be obeyed
No boots me to withstand
Some fairer maid in beauty's bloom
Shall bless thee with her hand.
12. Soon will Matilda be forgot
And from thy mind effaced
And may that happiness be thine
Which I can never taste.
13. Is this the vows Matilda dear
Which you have often made
And will Matilda wed the Graham
Tho' sworn to be my bride?
14. His sword shall sooner pierce my heart
Than rieve me of thy charms
Then clasped her to his throbbing breast
Fast locked within her arms.
15. "It was to try thy love" she said
I'll never wed man but thee
The grave shall be my bridal bed
If Graham my husband be.
16. Take then dear youth this faithful kiss
In witness of my troth
And every plague become my lot
The day I break my oath.
17. They parted thus the sun was set
Up hasty Donald flies
And turn thee turn thee beardless youth
He loud insulting cries.
18. Then turned about the fearless chief
And then his sword he drew
For Donald's sword before his heart
Had pierced his tartan through.
19. Thus for my brother's slighted love
His wrongs sit on my arm
Three paces back the youth retired
And saved himself from harm.
20. And then as quick his sword he reared
Fierce Donald's head above
And through the brain and crashing bone
The furious weapon drove.
21. Graham like a tree by wind o'erthrown
Fell breathless on the clay
"Thus fall my foes" quoth valiant Rose
And stately strode away.
22. Through the green wood in haste he passed
Into Lord Buchan's Hall
Beneath Matilda's window stood
And thus on her did call.
23. Art thou asleep Matilda dear
Awake my love awake
Thy lover stands without for thee
A long farewell to take.
24. For I have slain fierce Donald Graham
His blood is on my sword
And far far distant are my men
Who can protect their lord.
25. To Skye I will direct my flight
Where my brave brothers bide
An' raise the mightiest of that isle
To combat on my side.
26. Oh do not so the maid replied
With me till morning stay
For dark and dreary is the night
And dangerous is the way.
27. All night I'll watch thee in the park
My faithful page I'll send
In haste to raise the brave clan Rose
Their master to defend.
28. He laid him down beneath a bush
And wrapped him in his plaid
While trembling for her lover's fate
At distance stood the maid.
29. O'er hill and dale the page he ran
Till in a lowly glen
He met the furious Sir John the Graham
With twenty of his men.
30. "Where goest thou, little page" he said
So late who did thee send
I go to raise the brave clan Rose
Their master to defend.
31. For he has slain fierce Donal Graham
His blood is on his sword
And far far distant are his men
Who can assist their lord.
32. And has he slain my brother dear
The furious chief replies
Dishonour blast my name
But he by me ere morning dies.
33. Say page where is Sir James the Rose
I will thee well reward
He sleeps into Lord Buchan's park
Matilda is his guard.
34. They spurred their steeds and furious flew
Like lightning o'er the lea
And reached Lord Buchan's lofty towers
By breaking of the day.
35. Matilda stood without the gate
Upon a rising ground
She trembled for her lover's fate
An ear to every sound.
36. Four of his men, the bravest four
Sink down beneath his sword
But still they glutted for revenge
And sought the haughty lord.
37. Matilda saw and fast she ran
O spare his life she cried
Lord Buchan's daughter begs a life
Let her not be denied.
38. Her well known voice the hero heard
And lifted his death closed eyes
And fixed them on the weeping maid
And weakly thus replied.
39. "In vain Matilda begs a life
By death's arrest denied
My race is run, adieu my love"
Then closed his eyes, and died.
40. The sword yet warm in his right hand
With frantic hands she drew
I come Sir James the Rose she cried
I come to follow you.
41. The hilt she leaned against the ground
And bared her snowy breast
And fell upon her lover's face
And sunk to endless rest.
42. But yet his hand dropped not the sword
Nor sank he to the ground
Till through his enemy's heart the steel
Had pierced the mortal wound.
43. Graham like a tree by wind o'erthrown
Fell breathless on the clay
And down beside him sank the Rose
And faint and dying lay.
Mr THOMSON — G
--------------
#235P from the Greig-Duncan Folk Song Collection, just one verse:
Sir James the Rose
1. Now by this fatal tragedy
All parents warning take,
And never advise your children dear
Their sacred vows to break.
Miss BELL ROBERTSON — G