The Bodleian collection has 4 copies of this song. The following transcription is mainly from 2806 c.18(317) but I changed a few words based on comparisons with other versions.


THE TRUE LOVERS, or, THE KING'S COMMANDS MUST BE OBEYED

Abroad as I was walking, a-walking alone,
I heard two lovers talking, a-talking alone.
Says the young one to the fair one, "Bonnie lassie, this way.
The King he has commanded us, and his orders we must obey."

"That's not what you promised me when you did me beguile.
You promised to marry me when you got me with child.
It's do not me forsake, but pity on me take, for great is my woe.
Through Scotland, France, and Ireland along with you I'll go."

"Though long and weary travelling would hurt your tender feet.
Those hills and lofty mountains would cause you for to weep.
Besides, you would not yield to lay in an open field with me all night long.
Your parents would be angry if along with me you'd gang."

"My parents I don't value, nor my foes I don't fear.
Along with my valiant soldier I will travel far and near.
It's gold shall never me deceive nor any other foe. Along with you I'll go,
To fight the French and Spaniards or any other daring foe."

"Since you are so venturesome to venture your sweet life,
First I will marry you and make you my lawful wife.
If anyone offend you, it's I will defend you, and that you shall see.
You shall hear the drum and the trumpet sounds in the wars of high Germany."