NOUGHTS AND CROSSES
(Campbell / Hunter / Parr-Davies)

as recorded by George Formby
April 3rd 1938


I'd rather play 'oughts and crosses with you
Than go the pictures or the zoo.
I'm very daft at dancing,
At moonlight or romancing,
I'd rather play 'oughts and crosses with you!

I've never been one for billiards or darts,
I'm much too shy to play a game of hearts.
At dog tracks or the races,
I always lose me braces,
I'd rather play 'oughts and crosses with you!

Here am I,
A funny sort of guy,
I wouldn't dare to hold your hand.
Let's begin,
Maybe I'll let you win,
I hope that you understand!

Sittin' around a table for two,
That's the only thing I want to do.
There's something cute about you,
I couldn't do without you.
Playin' a simple game,
Tell me you feel the same,
I'd rather play 'oughts and crosses with you!

I'd rather play 'oughts and crosses with you
Than take you to a French non-stop review.
It may not be so funny,
But still it saves me money,
I'd rather play 'oughts and crosses with you!

I haven't the manly figure for sports,
I never think I look me best in shorts.
I lose me breath at biking,
And as or that mixed hiking,
I'd rather play 'oughts and crosses with you!

One fine day,
If luck should come me way,
We'll have a little kitchenette,
You and me,
And when we've had our tea,
I hope that you won't forget!

Playin' at 'oughts and crosses with you,
That's the only way that I can woo.
Though now you're far above me,
In time you'll learn to love me;
Isn't it bold and bad,
Hee hee, but I feel a lad,
Playin' at 'oughts and crosses with you!




(Transcribed by Peter Akers - October 2019)