Sweet William

It's often I sat on my true love's knee
And many a fond tale he told me
He told me things that never shall be
Sweet William's a-mourning among the rush.


Chorus:
 The rose is red, the grass is green
 The days are past that I have seen
 And there is another where I have been
 Sweet William's a-mourning among the rush.


I wish I was where I love best
Close in them arms I would embrace
The door should be locked and the key in the chest
Sweet William's a-mourning among the rush.


Chorus:
 The rose is red, the grass is green
 The days are past that I have seen
 And there is another where I have been
 Sweet William's a-mourning among the rush.


I wish, I wish, I wish in vain
Wish I was a maid again
Then my parents would not complain
Sweet William's a-mourning among the rush.


Chorus:
 The rose is red, the grass is green
 The days are past that I have seen
 And there is another where I have been
 Sweet William's a-mourning among the rush.


I'll dye my petticoats crimson red
Through the world I'll beg my bread
When he comes back he'll think I'm dead
Sweet William's a-mourning among the rush.


Chorus:
 The rose is red, the grass is green
 The days are past that I have seen
 And there is another where I have been
 Sweet William's a-mourning among the rush.