In Newry town, I was bred and born,
On Stephen's Green now I die in scorn.
I served my time on the saddler's trade,
But I was bound to be a roving blade.
At seventeen I took a wife,
Loved him dearer than I loved my life;
And for to keep him both fine and gay,
I to robbing on the King's highway
I never robbed any poor man yet,
Nor any tradesmen did I beset,
But I robbed lords and their ladies bright,
And brought their jewels home to my hearts delight.
I robbed Lord Golding I do declare,
And Lady Monsel in Grosvenor Square.
Shut their shutter, bade them goodnight,
Then home I went to my heart's delight
To Covent Garden I made my way,
With my dear wife for to see the play;
Lord Fielding's men did me pursue,
And taken was I by the cursed crew.
My father cried Oh my darling son!
My wife he cried I am undone!
My mother tore her white locks and cried,
That in the cradle I should have died.
When I am dead and in my grave
A flashy funeral pray let me have;
Six highwaymen for to carry me,
Give them good broadswords and their liberty.
Six pretty maids to bear my pall,
Give them white garlands and ribbons all.
And when I'm dead they may speak the truth,
He was a wild and wicked youth.