The version of this in the DT is close enough to what I used to hear at my local, that it is probably accurate. But... although I cannot recall who used to sing it, there were a couple of small variations (as I remember it) that seem to make sense. I have searched (googled) but cannot find a version that matches my recollection. Can someone please put my mind at rest as to whether the DT version is the 'standard' (& I'm suffering from memory distortion), or if the version I recall is a valid (recognised) variant.
DT Version Of all the money that e'er I spent I've spent it in good company And all the harm that ever I did Alas it was to none but me And all I've done for want of wit To memory now I can't recall So fill to me the parting glass Good night and joy be with you all
If I had money enough to spend And leisure to sit awhile There is a fair maid in the town That sorely has my heart beguiled Her rosy cheeks and ruby lips I own she has my heart enthralled So fill to me the parting glass Good night and joy be with you all
Oh, all the comrades that e'er I had They're sorry for my going away And all the sweethearts that e'er I had They'd wish me one more day to stay But since it falls unto my lot That I should rise and you should not I'll gently rise and softly call Good night and joy be with you all
The variations I recall are for all 3 verses.
V1. L3 "It was, alas, to none but me" (change of word order) V1. L4 "and all I've said, for want of wit"
V2. L2 "And leisure for to sit awhile" (fits scansion) V2. L3 "There is a fair maid in this town" V2. L4 "That sorely does my heart beguile" (better rhyme) V2. L6 "I own she has my heart in thrall" (better rhyme)
V3. L3 "And all the sweethearts that e'er I kissed" V3. L4 "Would wish me one more night to stay" (avoids awkward late rhyme in line)