O as I was a-walking down by yon mill-town,
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The fair and lovely mountains they did me surround;
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'Twas there I saw a fair maid, and to me she looked grand;
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She was plucking wild roses on the banks of the Bann.
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So I stepped up to this fair one, and to her I did say,
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"Since nature has formed us for to meet on this day --
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Since nature has formed us, won't you give me your hand,
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And we will walk together on the banks of the Bann."
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Now it being a summer's evening and a fine quiet place,
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I knew by the blushes that appeared on her face....
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We both lay down together unto a bed of sand,
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And she rolled into my arms on the banks of the Bann.
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"O young man, you have wronged me; won't you tell me your name,
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That when my babe is born I may give it the same?"
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"My name is Willie Archer, and I'd have you understand
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That my home and habitation lie close by the Bann.
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"But I cannot marry you, for apprenticed I'm bound
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To the spinning and the weaving in Rathfriland town.
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But when my time is over I will give you my hand
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And we will be married on the banks of the Bann."
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So come all you fair maidens, take warning by me:
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Don't go out a-courting at one, two, or three.
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Don't go out a-courting so late if you can,
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Or you'll meet with Willie Archer on the banks of the Bann.
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-----------------
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Willie Archer
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| Silly Wizard |
