The Labouring Man's Daughter - Karan Casey

A nobleman’s son, he dreamed such a dream

Of the beautifulest girl in the nation

No counsel would he take, but journeys he’d make

Through Ireland to seek this fair creature

'Twas seven long years he searched here and there

'Til he came to the place where he’d meet her

He opened the door and she stood on the floor

She was a laboring man’s daughter

I never have seen you but once in my life

And that was in a dream, you lay by me

And now you’re beside me, by the look in your eyes

I know that you ne’er will deny me

And what’s your desire, pray tell me, kind sir

That you’re so afraid of denial?

Although I am poor, no scorn will I endure

Do not put me under such trial

No scorn will I bring, nor any such thing

And he took out a ring as a token

Oh love is a thing which does hang on a string

But between us it ne’er will be broken

And if I should consent your bride for to be

Your parents would both be offended

Besides they would always be frowning on me

Because you are highly descended

For father and for mother I have none in this world

I have none but myself and a brother

And as for my friends, they will not frown on me

So we can but love one another

So now they has gained what love and delight

And they are living in joy and plenty

The laboring man’s daughter has married a knight

Heaven protect them both together