Fare-thee-well, Lovely Mary for its now I must leave you
To the distant West Indies my long course to steer
I know very well, love, my long absence will grieve you.
But love I’ll be with you, in the spring of the year.

So don’t let my long absence bring any worries on you love
Or any strange notions come into your mind
For though we are parted we’ll be true and loyal-hearted
And when I return love, ‘twill be just like old times

I will dress as a sailor, she said, and go with you
In the midst of all dangers by your side I will stand.
And if there be any storms or raging seas round you
I’ll be there love beside you to obey your command.

Your tiny little fingers, could not hold this strong cable
And your small feet to the top-mast could not go.
Your frail, slender body this rough life can not endure, love
Stay at home lovely Mary to the seas do not go.

Soon the big ship was sailing, lovely Mary sadly waiting
Her red rosy cheeks now as pale as the snow.
Her gay golden locks she’s continually tearing
Saying, I sigh, love, I’ll die love shall I e’er see you more.