John Riley
lyrics and music by Gibson/Neff
Performed by The Gutterpups on The Kings Nuts

Fair young maid all in her garden
Strange young man pass her by
Saying, "Fair maid, will you marry me?"
This then, "Sir," was her reply:

"Oh no kind sir, I cannot marry thee,
For I've a love who sails all on the sea.
He's been gone for seven years.
Still no man shall marry me."

"What if he's in some battle, slain
Or drowned in the deep salt sea?
What if he's found another love
And he and his love both married be?"

"If he's in some battle slain
I will die when the moon doth wain
And if he's drowned in the deep salt sea
I'll be true to his memory.

"And if he's found another love
And he and his love both married be,
I wish them health and happiness
Where they dwell across the sea."

He picked her up all in his arms
And kisses gave her one, two, three
Saying, "Weep no more, my own true love,
I am your long lost John Riley."

Background by Daniel Womack: This song is attributed to a writing tandem of Gibson & Neff though I'm not sure who they are. The legend behind the song dates back possibly to the beginning of naval vessels or even travel itself where a man goes off then returns years later to test the devotion and loyalty of his love. This song was brought into the limelight by The Byrds and also Joan Baez but I personally love the Gutterpups version much more. If anyone has information on Gibson & Neff or futher history behind this tune, please email me at lyrics@renaissancefestivalmusic.com.