Arthur McBride (New Recording) Paul Brady

Oh, me and my cousin, one Arthur McBride
As we went a walking down by the seaside
Now, mark what followed and what did betide
For it being on Christmas morning

Out for recreation, we went on a tramp
And we met Sergeant Napper and Corporal Vamp
And a little wee drummer, intending to camp
For the day being pleasant and charming

"Good morning, good morning" the sergeant did cry
"And the same to you gentlemen" we did reply
Intending no harm but meant to pass by
For it being on Christmas morning

But says he, "My fine fellows if you will enlist
It's ten guineas in gold I will slip in your fist
And a crown in the bargain for to kick up the dust
And drink the King's health in the morning"

"For a soldier he leads a very fine life
And he always is blessed with a charming young wife
And he pays all his debts without sorrow or strife
And always lives pleasant and charming"

"And a soldier he always is decent and clean
In the finest of clothing he's constantly seen
While other poor fellows go dirty and mean
And sup on thin gruel in the morning"