Shepherd of the Downs A shepherd of the downs, being weary of his port Retired to the hills where he used to resort In want of refreshment, he laid himself down He wanted no riches nor wealth from the crown He drank of the cold brook, he ate of the tree Himself he did enjoy, of all sorrow he was free He valued no girl, be she ever so fair No pride or ambition, he valued no care As he was a walking one evening so clear A heavenly sweet voice sounded soft in his ear He stood like a post, not one step could he move He knew not what ailed him, but thought it was love He beheld a young damsel, a fair modest maid She had something amiss and disguised in her face Disguised in her face, she unto him did say "How now, Master Shepherd, how come you this way?" The shepherd replied and modestly said "I never was surprised before at a maid When first you beheld me, from sorrow I was free But now you have stolen my poor heart away" He took her by the hand and this he did say "We will get married, pretty Betsy, today" So to the church they did go and were married, we hear And now he'll enjoy pretty Betsy, his dear recorded by Bob and Ron Copper SOF
Thanks to Mudcat for the Digital Tradition!