I am a young maiden and my story is sad
For once I was courted by a brave sailor lad
He courted me strongly by night and by day
Oh but now he has left me and sailed far away
Oh if I was a blackbird, I'd whistle and sing
And I'd follow the vessel my true love sails in
And on the top riggin', I would there build my nest
And I'd flutter my wings for his lily white breast
Well he promised to take me to Donnybrook fair
And to buy me red ribbons to bind up my hair
And when he'd return from the ocean so wide
He would take me and make me his own loving bride
Oh if I was a blackbird, I'd whistle and sing
And I'd follow the vessel my true love sails in
And on the tall riggin', I would there build my nest
And I'd flutter my wings for his lily white breast
His parents they slight me and will not agree
That I and my sailor boy married should be
But when he comes home I will greet him with joy
And I'll take to my heart my dear sailor boy
Oh if I was a blackbird, I'd whistle and sing
And I'd follow the vessel my true love sails in
And on the top riggin', I'd there build my nest
And I'd flutter my wings for his lily white breast