I've been a wild rover for many's the year
And I've spent all my money on whiskey and beer
But now I'm returning with money in great store
And I never will play the wild rover no more.
Chorus:
And it's no, nay, never (ride up his kilt!)
No, nay, never,
no more
Will I play the wild rover
No, never, no more!
I went into an ale-house I used to frequent
And I told the landlady me money was spent
I asked her for credit - She ordered me out
"Such a custom as yours I can sure live without".
(Chorus)
Then out of my pocket I took sovereigns bright
And the landlady's eyes opened wide with delight
She said, "I have whiskey and wines of the best
And the words that I spoke sure were only in jest".
(Chorus)
I'll go home to my parents confess what I've done
And they'll open their arms to their prodigal son
And when they've embraced me as oft-times before
I never will play the wild rover no more.
(Chorus)