(Trad)
A shepherd of the downs being weary of his port
Retired to the hills where he used to resort
In want of refreshment he laid himself down
He wanted no riches nor wealth from the Crown
He wanted no riches nor wealth from the Crown
He drank of the cold brook he ate of the tree
Himself he did enjoy from all sorrow was free
He valued no girl be she ever so fair
No pride nor ambition he valued no care (2x)
As he was a-walking one evening so clear
A heavenly sweet voice sounded soft in his ear
He stood like a post not one step could he move
He knew not what hailed him but thought it was love (2x)
He beheld a young damsel a fair modest maid
She had something amiss and disguised in her face
Disguised in her face she unto him did say
How now Master Shepherd how came you this way (2x)
The shepherd he replied and modestly said
I never was surprised before at a maid
When first you beheld me from sorrow I was free
But now you have stolen my poor heart away (2x)
He took her by the hand and this he did say
We will be married pretty Betsy today
So to church they did go and were married we hear
And now he'll enjoy pretty Betsy his dear (2x)
(as sung by Peter Bellamy)