Lyrics:

Said Johnny to Molly, 'I am now going to leave you
But do not be grieved at my going away
For the more we are parted, we'll always be true-hearted
And again I'll return in the sweet month of May'

Said Molly to Johnny, 'Oh I will mourn for you
And I will be grieved at your going away
For you know very well that your absence does grieve me
I'm afraid you might die in a strange country

I'll dress myself up like a neat little sea boy
Amidst all life's dangers I will stand your friend
Through the winds that lie low, to high winds are a-blowing
My dear, I'll be with you to plow the rough main'

'Your delicate fingers our ropes could not handle
Your lily-white feet, love, our decks could not stand
The cold nights of winter you ne'er could endure them
So stay at home, darling, to the seas do not go'

Her two little arms, 'round his neck she entwined them
The clear crystal tears from her eyes down did flow
And her lily-white hands on the decks she kept wringing
Crying, 'Oh my beloved will I never see you more?'

So come, all ye fair maids that's inclined to marry
Never place your affection too much on one man
For first he will court you and then he'll deceive you
He'll leave you as I was left to mourn when he's gone