smugglers

Quiet is the town and the town clock-tower,

And quiet rock the boats on the sea.

The trees on the hill are standing as still

And as straight as Cathy and me.

‘Keep warm in your beds, don’t worry your heads,

always let sleeping dogs lie.

Cover your eyes and don’t say a word

While the Gentlemen go by.’

But Cathy and me

Are fearless and brave

And we followed the smugglers

Right down to their cave.

Stacked high were the boxes and casks

Of fine lace, French wine and Spanish gold.

The smuggler band they are wonderful grand:

Oh, I wish to be one when I’m old!

‘The smuggler’s life is one full of strife

whatever the songs that they sing.

Shot at and hounded by Preventive men,

And surely, my boy, you shall swing.’

But Cathy and me

Are bold and strong.

Surely the smugglers

Will take us along?

Quiet is the boat with the blue light burning

And quiet are the waves on the sand.

The Revenue men they are hid in the glen

To catch them when the boat comes in to land.

‘Cathy stay put with the smuggler loot,

and here is a candle for light.

I’ll warn the smugglers of the Revenue men:

They’ll not be taken tonight!’

Quick and quiet

And nimble am I.

And tell the smugglers

Where the Posse lie.

Quiet is the town and the town clock-tower,

And quiet rock the boats on the sea.

The gentlemen have gone home again

And so have Cathy and me!