Tae the Begging Marc Gunn

Of all the trades that I do know, the beggin is the best
For when a beggar’s weary he can aye sit doon and rest

To the beggin’ I will go will go
To the beggin’ I will go

Before I head out on the road, I’ll let me beard grow strong;
And my nails I will nae cut ’em, for the beggars wear them long

I’ll put no water on my hands, and little on my face;
For still the lowner like I am, the more my trade I’ll grace

And I’ll go to the tailor, with a wad of hodden gray
I’ll have him make a cloak for me, that will keep me night and day

When I come tae a farm-toon, I’ll say with hat in hand;
“Will the beggar-man get quarters here? Alas, I canna stand.”

And when they all come in about, It’s then I’ll start to sing
And do my best to gather them, around about the ring

If there’s a wedding in the town; you’ll surely find me there;
I’ll pour my kindest benisons, Upon the happy pair

And some will give me beef and bread, And some will give me cheese;
And out and in among the folk, I’ll gaither the bawbees