Lyrics to “The Blue Cockade” by Show of Hands
It was on one Monday morning, as I crossed o'er the moss.
I little thought of 'listing, til the soldiers did me cross.
The company enticed me to drink their health all round.
And the bounty (and the bounty)
And the bounty (and the bounty)
They gave me five guineas and a crown.
My head was full of drink love, and I didn't think of you.
And now I'm forced to go and join the orange and the blue.
Our ship, she waits at anchor to take the flowing tide.
I'll return, love (I'll return, love)
I'll return, love (I'll return)
In the springtime, when I'll make you my bride.
So early the next morning, before the break of day.
The captain gave his orders, and my love marched away.
All in your ranks and files boys, all on your native shore.
Fare thee well, love (fare thee well, love)
Fare thee well, love (fare thee well)
Fare thee well, love; you're the lad that I adore
But I hope you never prosper, and I hope you always fail.
In everything you venture, I hope you ne'er do well.
And the very ground you walk upon, may the grass refuse to grow.
Since you've been the (since you have been the)
Since you've been the (since you have been)
The very cause of my sorrow, grief and woe.
instrumental
Well it's true my love has listed, and he wears the blue cockade.
He is a handsome young man, likewise a roving blade.
He is a handsome young man, and he's gone to serve the king.
While my very (while my very)
While my very (while my very)
Heart is aching, all for the love of him.
Farewell...