January 2003

The Ash Grove

This is another Welsh song brought back from Wales for me by Ms. Deborah Davis, who found it in Welsh Melodies by John Thomas, published by Addison, Hollier and Lucas, London, 1862

The Ash Grove

Down yonder green valley
Where streamlets meander,
When twilight is fading,
I pensively rove;
Or at the bright noontide,
In solitude wander,
Amid the dark shades of
The lonely Ash Grove.

Twas there, while the blackbird
Was cheerfully singing,
I first met that dear one
The joy of my heart!
Around us for gladness
The bluebells were ringing;
Ah! Then little thought
I how soon we should part.

Still glows the bright sunshine
O'er valley and mountain,
Still warbles the blackbird
Its note from the tree;
Still trembles the moonbeam
on streamlet and fountain,
But what are the beauties
of nature to me?

With sorrow, deep sorrow
my bosom is laden,
All day I go mourning
in search of my love;
Ye echoes, Oh! tell me
where is the dear maiden?
"She sleeps 'neath the green turf
down by the Ash Grove."

Click here to download the MID file.