Shirt and comb

from 52 Folk Songs: Yellow by Phil Edwards

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lyrics

Now I came home downcast that day
The bearer of bad news
She smiled at me as I came in
As I stood there in my muddy shoes

I loved her so my poor heart cracked
To tell her what I told,
Her smile froze, her mouth went slack
And my grief oppressed me doublefold

I said “I’m not the master of my fate
As I would wish to be
I’m leaving now and I can’t be late
They ship out tonight and they’re taking me

“Our mission’s still a mystery
I’m just one of many men
Who must leave their homes and their families
And might not pass this way again.”

“Then I will join your company
I’m not afraid nor weak,
I'll bind my breasts and crop my hair
And I’ll speak low just like a boy would speak.”

“You cannot come with me, my love
They don't take volunteers
But there’s one thing I'll promise you
Though I may be gone for many years

“No shirt shall ever touch my back
Nor comb go through my hair
But I’ll think about the bed you’re in
And wish that I was lying with you there.”

credits

from 52 Folk Songs: Yellow, released April 22, 2012
By Peter Blegvad

Phil Edwards: vocal, English concertina, drums, C whistle

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