“Thomas and Nancy”

Description

Thomas's ship is ready for sea, forcing him to leave Nancy. She calls to him to remember his sweetheart and family. His ship is wrecked almost at once. Nancy finds Thomas's body, kisses its lips, and dies of grief

Notes

Although the Bodleian broadsides list the tune as "Gallant Hussar," this doesn't really match "The Gallant Hussar (A Damsel Possessed of Great Beauty)" metrically; you can make it fit, but it's work. I suspect a different "Gallant Hussar" song is meant. - RBW

Same tune

  • Gallant Hussar (per broadsides Bodleian Firth b.27(273), Bodleian 2806 c.16(120))

Cross references

Broadsides

  • Bodleian, Harding B 11(3473), "Thomas and Nancy," J. Catnach (London), 1813-1838; also Harding B 11(4123), Firth b.27(273), Firth b.25(109), 2806 c.16(120), Firth b.26(156), Harding B 16(287c), Firth c.13(298), Johnson Ballads 2915, "Thomas and Nancy"
  • Murray, Mu23-y1:119, "Thomas and Nancy," unknown, 19C

References

  1. Laws K15, "Thomas and Nancy"
  2. Greenleaf/Mansfield 54, "Thomas and Nancy" (1 text, 1 tune)
  3. Peacock, pp. 729-732, "Thomas and Nancy" (2 texts, 2 tunes)
  4. Lehr/Best 107, "Thomas and Nancy" (1 text, 1 tune)
  5. DT 812, TOMNANCY
  6. Roud #3232
  7. BI, LK15

About

Author: unknown
Earliest date: before 1839 (broadside, Bodleian Harding B 11(3473))
Keywords: separation wreck death
Found in: Canada(Newf)