During the Napoleonic wars it was customary for British troops ordered on active service to take some of their wives with them. The usual proportion was six women per hundred men. The wives who were to accompany their husbands were chosen by ballot: excitement for the lucky ones and anguish for those left behind. The latter often marched with the regiment to the port of departure, desperate to remain with their men till the last moment, and there were harrowing scenes as families were separated, perhaps forever.
In this old English ballad the soldier has used the promise of marriage and the opportunity to go with him to have his evil way. The deed done he then refuses to honour his promises and the poor girl considers going into a convent.

Depite all our social media not much has change in the relationship between men and women.

Thanks to Javolenus for the guitar and the opportunity to step back in time to Bridgend Folk Club circa 1970.

As is the way With traditional ballads the singer has to take on the persona of the main protagonists in the song and here is no different as I skip between the part of the soldier and the fair maid of Manchester.