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