The surf was easy on the day I came to stay 

On this quiet island in the bay 

I remember a line of women all in white 

The laughter and the steel bands at night 



Now the Americans are gone exept for two 

The embassy's been hard to reach 

There's been talk and lately a bit of action after dark 

Behind the big casino on the beach 



The rules are changed 

It's not the same 

It's all new players in a whole new ball game 



Last night I dreamed of an old lover dressed in gray 

I've had this fever now since yesterday 

Wake up darling they're knocking the Colonel's standing in the sun 

With his stupid face the glasses and the gun 



I know what happens 

I read the book 

I believe I just got the goodbye look 



Won't you pour me a Cuban breeze Gretchen 



I know a fellow with a motor launch for hire 

A skinny man with two-one shoes 

Cause tonight they're arranging a small reception just for me 

Behind the big casino by the sea 



I know what happens 

I read the book 

I believe I just got the goodbye look