As I went out one May morning
One May morning betime,
I met a maid from home had strayed
Just as the sun did shine.

"What makes you rise so soon, my dear,
Your journey to pursue?
Your pretty little feet they tread so sweet
Strike off the morning dew."

"I'm going to feed my father's flock,
His young and tender lambs
That over hills and over dales
Lie waiting for their dams."

"Oh stay, oh stay, you handsome maid,
And rest a moment here,
For there is none but you alone
That I do love so dear."

"How gloriously the sun does shine!
How pleasant is the air!
I'd rather rest on a true love's breast
Than any other where."

"For I am thine and thou art mine
No man shall uncomfort thee
We'll join our hands in wedded bands
And married we will be."