The Ash Grove

A lovely, traditional Welsh tune . . . . The melody has been used for many different texts - perhaps the most common were penned by Thomas Oliphant. This melody can also be found in many hymnals as "Sent Forth by God's Blessing" and "Let all Things now Living". Sheet music available at https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/title/the-ash-grove-digital-sheet-music/22205134

"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 joyfully singing,
I first met my 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 grows the bright sunshine o'er valley and mountain,
Still warbles the blackbird his 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, O tell me, where is the sweet maiden?
She sleeps 'neath the green turf down by the Ash grove."