“Heather Jock”
Description
"Heather Jock's noo awa' (x2), The muircock noo may crousely craw, Since Heather Jock's noo away'." Jock can hide anywhere, and steal anything; bad from his youth, he also plays music on the sabbath. Now he is caught and on his way to Botany Bay
Notes
The tune here is not quite "Bobby Shaftoe" (or relatives such as "Katie Beardie"), but it sounds to me as if it might be derived from that type.
Even though Jock was apparently a scourge of the community, you can't help but feel that the singer admired him.
Ford gives extensive notes regarding John Ferguson, who reportedly inspired the song. He is said to have been placed on trial in 1812 and transported for life, primarily for stealing cattle. - RBW
Broadsides
- NLScotland, L.C.Fol.178.A.2(093), "Heather Jock," unknown, c. 1875; also L.C.Fol.70(132b), c. 1890
References
- SHenry H39, pp. 123-124, "Heather Jock" (1 text, 1 tune)
- Ford-Vagabond, pp. 131-135, "Heather Jock" (1 text, 1 tune)
- Roud #2339
- BI, HHH039