THE IRISH GIRL
(Traditional)

David Hammond - 1956
Phil Cooper & Margaret Nelson - 1992
Also recorded by: Shirley Collins; The Clancy Brothers.


As I walked out one May morning 
Down by the riverside
I cast my eyes around me
And an Irish girl I spied

Her cheeks were sad and rosy
And coal black was her hair
How costly were the jewels 
That Irish girl did wear

As I walked out that May morning
My true love passing by
I knew her mind was changing
By the movement of her eyes

Oh, don't you now remember, love
When you gave me your right hand
You vowed if you got married
That I should be the man

I wish I were a butterly 
I'd fly to my love's nest
I wish I were a linnet
I'd sing my love to rest

I wish I were a nightengale
Id sing to the morning clear
I'll hold you in my arms, my love
The girl I love so dear