As I walked out one morning
All in the month of May
Down by a flowery garden
I carelessly did stray
I overheard a young maid
In sorrow did complain,
All for her absent lover
Who plows the raging main.
I boldly stepped up to her
And put her in surprise.
I know she did not know me
I being in disguise.
I says, «Me charming creature,
My joy, my hearts delight,
How far have you to travel
This dark and dreary night?»
«I’m in search of a faithless young man.
Johnny is his name.
And along the Banks of Claudy
I’m told be does remain.»