“Fear a’ Bhàta“ - CAPERCAILLIE

Recorded at The Old Fruitmarket Glasgow for Celtic Connections. Karen Matheson - vocals Composed in the late 18th Century by Jane Finlayson of Tong, Lewis for a young Uig fisherman, Donald MacRae. The following is the English translation: chorus Boatman, o ho ro eile Boatman, o ho ro eile Boatman, o ho ro eile A fond farewell wherever you go I often look from the highest hill To try and see the boatman Will you come today or tomorrow If you don’t come at all I will be downhearted My heart is broken and bruised With tears often flowing from my eyes Will you come tonight or will I expect you Or will I close the door with a sad sigh? I often ask people on boats Whether they see you or whether you are safe Each of them says That I was foolish to fall in love with you.