It is called "The Tortoise" and is sung by the Corries on the "Barrett's Privateers" tape. Does anyone know where I can find the melody for this song or a music file. The words are:

THE TORTOISE

He was just a lonely tortoise looking for a home.
His little feet were blistered with the miles he had to roam.
I found him in a pet shop. On his cheek there was a tear,
And painted on his little back was "Twenty pence to clear."

CHORUS: He's a faithful friend, the tortoise. He'll love you 'til the end,
And you won't need a person with a tortoise for a friend.

I took him from the pet shop, tied to a piece of string.
I'm sure that he was happy for I thought I heard him sing.
I took him to my sports car. We had many's the mile to go.
I tied him to the bumper. He was grateful for the tow. CHORUS

In winter he would hibernate. Yes, we'd both retire,
And when his little feet got cold, I'd place him on the fire.
In summer by the swimming pool, I was so proud of him.
I'd throw him in and then he'd sink. I don't think that he could swim. CHORUS

Then came the day that's coming to all creatures great and small.
A drunken driver hit my friend. He smashed him against the wall.
When I arrived, all I could find were little bits of shell.
I made them into plectrums. I know my plectrums well.