The Broom Of The Cowdenknowes II
How blyth was I ilk morn to see
My swain come o're the hill;
He leap'd the burn and flew to me
I met him wi' good will.
Oh, the broom, the bonnie, bonnie broom
The broom o' the cowdenknowes
I wish I were wi' my dear swain
Wi' his pipe and my ewes.
I neither wanted ewe nor lamb
While his flock near me lay
He gather'd in my sheep at nicht
And cheer'd me a' the day
Oh, the broom...
Whe tun'd his pipe and played sae sweet
The birds sat list'ning by
E'en the dull cattle stood and gaz'd
Charm'd with his melody.
Oh, the broom...
While thus we spent our time by turns,
Betwixt our flocks and pray
I envied not the faires dame
Though ne'er sae rich and gay.
Oh, the broom...
Hard fate that I should banish'd be
Gang heavily and mourn
Because I love'd the kindest swain
That ever yet was born.
Oh, the broom...
He did oblige he every hour
Could I but faithful be?
He staw my heart, could I refuse
Whate'er he ask'd of me?
Oh, the broom...
My doggie and my little kit
That held my wee sop whey
My plaidie, brooch, and crooked stick
May now lie useless by
Oh, the broom....
Adieu, ye Cowdenknowes, adieu
Farewell, a' pleasures there
Ye gods, restore me to my swain
Is a' I crave or care.
Oh, the broom....
traditional
This is the women's version.