The big ship's a sailing

Oh the big ship's a sailing far across the ocean
Fare thee well lovely Annie I bid you dieu
And I cant return where small birds are nesting
Or take you dear Annie and make you my bride

You remember dear Annie when we walked on the mountain
And we saw all those young men a marching away
To fight for her country and free her from bondage
When I left you dear Annie I went with them that day

We fought hard through winter and many died bravely
And we thought of our loved ones, our country unfree
And my heart nearly broke when I thought of the mountain
Where I held you in my arms on that warm summer's day

But our names they were given by a Judas informer
I remember his face, he fought right beside me
I was given the assignment to kill him one evening
And bury his body in the deep flowing sea

So now you know Annie why I must leave you
And why I can't take you and make you my bride
For I am in danger and fear every stranger
In village and city who walks by my side

So come with me Annie once more to the mountain
And walk with me slowly to the ship by the sea
And let me carress you and kiss you and bless you
For ever and always you'll be dearest to me

Farewell to my homeland, my parents and comrades
The brave men who died and fought beside me
To the mountains and valleys, the green fields of Erin
May the young men of Ireland bring you liberty