I've been a wild rover for many's the year

and I've spent all my money on whisky and beer.

But now I'm returning with money in great store

and I never will play the wild rover no more.



And it's no nay never, (right up his kilt!)

no nay never no more

will I play the wild rover no never no more.



I went into an ale-house I used to frequent

and I told the landlady my money was spent.

I asked her for credit, She ordered me out

Such a custom as yours I can sure live without



Then out of my pocket I took sovereigns bright

and the landlady's eyes opened wide with delight;

she said: "I have whisky and wine of the best

and the words that I spoke sure were only in jest".



I'll go home to my parents confess what i have done

and I'll ask them to pardon the prodigal son,

and when they've embraced me as oft-times before,

I never will play the wild rover no more