A Gallant Soldier- Dooley (VA) 1918 Sharp F
[My title. From English Folk Songs from the Southern Appalachians; Sharp/Karpeles I, 1932. "Duel" is a mishearing of "jewel" by the informant or collector.
R. Matteson 2011, 2014]
A Gallant Soldier- Sung by Mrs. TINA DOOLEY at Montvale, Va., June 6, 1918
Pentatonic. Mode 2.
1. There was a gallant soldier,
Just lately come from Spain,
He courted miss Sally,
Great honor and great name.
2. Her riches were so greatly,
They scarcely could be told,
Although she loved the soldier,
Because he was so bold.
3 See here, my little Duel,
I'd vainly be your wife,
But my hard-hearted father
Will shortly end your life.
4 He drew his sword and pistol,
He placed her by his side,
He swore that he'd get married
At their own heart's content.
5 They got on their horses
And to the church they went,
And there they got married
At their own heart's content.
6 They got on their horses,
Returning home again,
They met their cruel father
And seven arm-ed men.
7 See here, my little Duel,
Do you make this lady your wife,
Down in some lonesome valley
I'll shortly take your life.
8 Ride on, ride on, said the lady,
I have no flatter (?),
I am but one soldier
Not fitten for a battle.
9 See here, my little Duel,
You bring my daughter so low,
For to marry a soldier
And he's so poor.
10 He drew his sword and pistol,
He caused them to rattle.
The lady held the horses
While the soldier fought the battle.
11 The first one he came to
He pierced him through the main,
The next one he came to
He served him the same.
12 Stop, stop, says the old man,
It's labour all in vain
To fight this gallant soldier,
For we will all be slain.
13 See here, my little Duel,
You must not be so bold.
O you may have my daughter
And ten thousand pounds of gold.