If I Was A Blackbird

I am a young maiden and my story is sad
 For once I was courted by a brave sailor lad
 He courted me strongly by night and by day
 Oh but now he has left me and sailed far away
 Oh if I was a blackbird, I'd whistle and sing
 And I'd follow the vessel my true love sails in
 And on the top riggin', I would there build my nest
 And I'd flutter my wings for his lily white breast
 Well he promised to take me to Donnybrook fair
 And to buy me red ribbons to bind up my hair
 And when he'd return from the ocean so wide
 He would take me and make me his own loving bride
 Oh if I was a blackbird, I'd whistle and sing
 And I'd follow the vessel my true love sails in
 And on the tall riggin', I would there build my nest
 And I'd flutter my wings for his lily white breast
 His parents they slight me and will not agree
 That I and my sailor boy married should be
 But when he comes home I will greet him with joy
 And I'll take to my heart my dear sailor boy
 Oh if I was a blackbird, I'd whistle and sing
 And I'd follow the vessel my true love sails in
 And on the top riggin', I'd there build my nest
 And I'd flutter my wings for his lily white breast