British Man o' War It was down by Cults garden for pleasure I did stray Twas there I spied a comely maid talking to her sailor gay Saying Susie my love Susie I tm going to leave the shore For to cross the briney ocean on a British Man O' War. Then Susie fell a weeping, these words I heard her say "You needn't be so foolish as to throv yourself away When at the age of 21 I will receive my store So change your inclination from a British Man O' War." O Susie, lovely, Susie, the truth to you I'll tell The British flag is insulted and old England knows it well You may be crowned with laurels or some other jolly tar But I'll face the walls of China on a British Man O' War. Oh, my love Willie, don't face those bold Chinese For they will prove so treacherous, as any Portuguese And by some sword or dagger you may receive a scar Jolly sailor, do not venture On a British Man O' War O Susie, lovely, Susie, the time has come at last For to go down to yonder pub and drink a parting glass My shipmates, they are waiting to row me from the shore For to cross the briney ocean on a British Man O' War. Willie took out his handkerchief, he tore it straight in two Saying half of this I'll keep myself, and the other I'll give to you When bellows they surround me and the cannons loudly roar Then I'll fight for England's glory on a British Man O' War. A few more words; were spoken and then they both shook hands The sailors gently manned their oars and quickly rowed from land And Willie waved his handkerchief till they were far from shore Saying farewell my lovely Susie from a British Man O' War. -------------------- Traditional From the singing of the Kenny Family from Kitchuses, NFLD Tune to be supplied by Vincent Kenny of Brooklyn, NY TN apr97
Thanks to Mudcat for the Digital Tradition!