Debra Cowan - The Poor Soldier Lyrics
I'll tell you of a soldier who lately came from seaHe courted a lady of high frisk o' freeHer riches were so great they scarcely could be toldBut yet she loved the soldier because he was so boldShe said my brave soldier I would be your wifeBut I fear my cruel father will surely take your lifeHe drew his sword and his pistol and he hung them by his sideAnd he swore that he would marry her and let what would betideAs they were going to church one day and on returning home againUp steps her cruel father with sevne armored men“Oh then” cries the lady “I fear we shall be slain”Fear nothing, my jewel” the soldier says againThen up stepped the old man in form he did saying“Is this your behaviour or is it your wedding day?Altho you've been as silly as to be a soldier's wifeAll in this pleasant valley, I will end your sweet life.”Then up stepped the soldier, “I do not like this rattleAltho I am a bridegroom and not prepared for battle.”He drew his sword and pistol and he caused them to rattleThe lady held the horse while the soldier fought the battleThe first man he came to he soon had him slain.The second one he came to, he served him the same.“Oh run,” cries the rest, “I fear we shall be slainFor a fight with a soldier is altogether in vain”“Stay your hand” the old man cries, “Don't carry on so bold.And you can have my daughter and ten thousand pound in gold”“Fight on,” cried the lady, “My portion is too small”“Oh stay your hand,” the old man cried “and you can have it all!”The old man took him home with him and treated him as an heirTis not because he loved him but it was for dread and fearThere never was a soldier twas fit to carry a gunThat would either flinch or stir inch 'til the battle he had wonDespise not a soldier because he is poorHe's as happy on the battlefield as at the barracks doorHis brave, brisk and bold and sociable and freeAnd willing to fight for his love and for his liberty
