A RED ROSE

I wish my love was a red rose

I wish my love was a red, red rose growing in yon garden fair

And I to be the gardener, of her I would take care

There's not a month throughout the year, but my love I'd renew

I'd garnish her with flowers fine, sweet William, Thyme and Rue

I wish I was a butterfly, I'd light on my love's breast

And if I was a blue cuckoo, I'd sing my love to rest

And if I was a nightingale, I'd sing the daylight clear

I'd sit and sing with you, Molly, for once I loved you dear

I wish I was in Dublin town and seated on the grass

In my right hand, a jug of punch, and on my knee, a lass

I'd call for liquor freely and I'd pay before I'd go

I'd roll my Molly in my arms, let the wind blow high or low