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Ballad Of Luke Ryan

from Winsome Ways by Maurice McGrath

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about

The true story of an 18th century pirate and privateer from Rush Co. Dublin. Luke Ryan built up a large fortune due to his activities on the high seas. His successes were noted and in 1779 his ship was given a Letter of Marque by Benjamin Franklin which enabled it to join the fight in the American War of Independence. Luke Ryan became an official privateer. After taking many prizes, he was eventually captured and charged with Mayhem, Murder and Mutiny in London. He escaped the noose but found that his money had somehow disappeared from the bank where it was deposited. The bankers said they gave all his money to a woman who purported to be his wife. He died as a debtor in Kings Bench Prison.

lyrics

Ballad Of Luke Ryan

In seventeen hundred and seventy nine,
Benjamin Franklin he granted Luke Ryan
The right to join the war at sea
And prowl the ocean deep

Privateer, privateer Oh Luke Ryan
That bold privateer
Privateer, Privateer Oh Luke Ryan
That bold privateer

So off in the Black Prince then Luke he set sail
Six cannon loaded to fire on his prey
With shining blade and muskatoon
He raised a small typhoon

Chorus

From Dublin to Dover and off to Dundee
The south coast of England the wild Irish Sea
And everywhere the west wind blew
His fame and fortune grew

Chorus

In seventeen hundred and seventy nine,
Benjamin Franklin he granted Luke Ryan
The right to join the war at sea
And prowl the ocean deep

Chorus

© Copyright 2016 Maurice McGrath

credits

from Winsome Ways, released December 7, 2016
Written, played and recorded by Maurice McGrath. Backing vocals by Michelle Burrowes.

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all rights reserved

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about

Maurice McGrath image

Maurice McGrath Dublin, Ireland

www.mauricemcgrath.com

Songwriter based in Dublin Ireland. writing songs which are influenced by traditional folk songs and singers.
Plays guitar, banjo, mandolin, low whistle, and sings.



Also influenced by the singers at the various traditional music and unaccompanied singing sessions. ... more

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