Lyrics
'Twas down in yon valley a fair maid did dwell
She lived with her uncle, they all knew full well
'Twas down in yon valley where violets grew gay
Three gypsies betrayed her and stole her away
Long time she1d been missing, and could not be found;
Her uncle, he searched the country around
Till he came to the trustee, between hope and fear
The trustee made answer, She has not been here
The trustee spoke over with courage so bold
I fear she’s been lost for the sake of her gold
So we’ll have life for life, sir, the trustee did say
We’ll send you to prison, and there you shall stay
There was a young squire that loved her so
Oft times to the schoolhouse together they did go
I’m afraid she’s been murdered, so great is my fear
If I’d wings like a dove I would fly to my dear
He traveled through England, through France and through Spain
Till he ventured his life on the watery main
And he came to a house where he lodged for a night
And in that same house was his own heart’s delight
When she saw him, she knew him, and fled to his arms;
She told him her grief while he gazed on her charms
How came you to Dublin, my dearest, I pray?
Three gypsies betrayed me and stole me away
Your uncle’s in England, in prison does lie
And for your sweet sake is condemned for to die
Carry me to old England, my dearest, she cried
One thousand I’ll give thee, and will be your bride
When they came to old England her uncle to see
The cart it was under the high gallows tree;
Oh, pardon, oh, pardon, oh, pardon I crave. I’m alive
I’m alive, your dear life to save
Then from the high gallows they led him away
The bells they did ring and the music did play
Every house in that valley with mirth did resound
As soon as they heard the lost lady was found