As I went a-walking in the North Country,
Down by Kirby Steven I happened for to be,
As I was a-walking up and down the street,
A pretty little buy-a-broom I chanced to meet.
chorus:
For she was right, I was tight, everybody has their way,
It was the lish young buy-a-broom that led me astray.
She kindly then invited me to go a little way,
Yes was the answer to her I did say,
There was me with my music walkin' down the street,
And her with her tambourine was beatin' hand and feet.
chorus
Straight way out for Kendal town we steered her and I ,
Over you green mountain the weather being dry,
We each had a bottle filled up to the top
And whenever we were feeling dry we took a little drop.
chorus
The night was coming on and good lodgings we did find,
Eatables of all kind and plenty of good wine,
Good bed and blankets just for we two,
And I rolled her in me arms me boys, and wouldn't you do too.
chorus
Early the next morning we arose to go our way,
I called for the landlord to see what was to pay,
Fourteen and sixpence just for two,
Four crowns upon the table my darling then she threw.
chorus
Well the reason that we parted I now shall let you hear,
She started off for Germany right early the next year,
But me being unwilling to cross the raging sea,
Here's a health unto my bonny lass wherever she may be.
chorus repeat
