So early, early in the spring
I shipped on board to serve my king
I left my dearest dear behind
She oft' times swore her heart was mine

My love she takes me by the hand
“If ever I marry, you'll be the man"
A thousand vows so long and sweet
Saying "we'll be married when next we meet"

And all the time I sailed the seas
I could not find one moment's ease
In thinking of my dearest dear
And never a word from her could I hear

At last we sailed into Glasgow town
I strode the streets both up and down
Inquiring for my dearest dear
And never a word from her could I hear

I went straightway to her father's hall
And loudly for my love did call
“My daughter's married, she's a rich man's wife
She’s wed to another, much better for life"

If the girl is married that I adore
I'm sure I'll stay on land no more
I'll sail the sea 'til the day I die
I'll break the waves rolling mountains high