An early example of speed dating: after an encounter which these days might be considered sexual harassment, the couple fall in love and marry the next day. This song can be traced back to the 18th century, to a broadside entitled “The Sailor’s Courtship” and may be earlier. It was certainly printed a number of times and versions can be found in England, Scotland and Canada. The rural pastoral theme with a happy ending would have appealed to many country singers.
Notes by Gwilym Davies 4 July 2015