The Queen, the Sgt. Major, & the Hebridean Folksong

In the 1990’s, the Queen Mother, Col-in-Chief of the Canadian Forces Medical Services, let it be known that whenever her health was toasted at Military Dinners, it should be accompanied by the singing of “The Eriskay Lilt”: a Scottish Folk Song. 

RSM Scott Stewart of the 12th Field Ambulance in Vancouver took the Royal Request most seriously & scheduled a Rehearsal before the Annual Christmas Party. The “Eriskay Love Lilt” is a beautiful song but it is hardly a known favourite of beer-drinking soldiers. Half way during the Rehearsal a bold, impertinent young medic dared to ask ; 

“Sgt. Major do you really like that Eriskay song of the Queen Mum?” 

Stewart balancing strict truth against Chivalry, put on his most ferocious expression & thundered! 

LISTEN!    If she likes it:      I like it!   UNDERSTOOD?”    

“Ye….S!  Sgt. Major”  

Eriskay Lilt 

(Chorus) 

Vair me oro van o,       

Vair me oro vana, 

 Vair me oro o ho,       

SAD am I without you     

When I’m lonely dear white heart 

Black the night or wild the Sea, 

By love’s light my foot finds  

The old pathway to thee. 

(Chorus 

Thou’rt the music of my heart 

Harp of joy oh fruit mo cherish 

Moon of guidance by night 

Strength & light thou’t to me.