In the song I want a traveller (sailor?) is standing on a hillside above the Indian city of Madras. He sings a wistful, but not heartbroken, song of farewell. There is no element of romantic love in it. No lovers, no parting.

It ends with

And you will never know or fear
that ever I was standing here.
And I was only passing through.
So now, adieu, Madras, adieu.

This is different from the French song, in which the singer seems to be bidding farewell to a Madras shirt. (Farewell scarves, farewell Madras...) In the 1960's, Madras plaid shirts were trendy for a while.

THe song I want, which is in English and was recorded by Leon Bibb on his 'Cherries and Plums" album, has a sweet, peaceful, rocking melody. It is very lovely. It has stayed with me for 40 years, even though I only heard it once or twice.