The Poacher's Song

Words and music RW 1978

Wake up Jamie strike a light
For while you were lying dreaming
IÂ've been up the waterside
All with the gaff and the lantern
But the bailiff heÂ's a restless man
And terrible light in sleeping
His dogs did bark and his guns did bang
And damn but he had me running

and if the bailie comes today
Inquiring for a salmon
That maybe might have swum this way
Snagged onto someoneÂ's arm
Just grit your teeth and squint your eyes
HeÂ'll likely think youÂ're smiling
And take your hat into your hand
And bid the man good morning
Oh, aye, oh, aye, bid the man good morning

Invite him in for scones and tea
And laugh at all his joking
No need at all to let him see
WhatÂ's up the chimney smoking
And if he should inquire for me
For me or Johnny Brady
WeÂ've been away working several days
And weÂ'll not be back till Friday
Oh, aye, oh, aye, bid the man good morning
Oh, aye, oh, aye, bid the man good morning