This is a version I half remember, but I'm pretty sure there was another verse.

Anyone know it?


IF I WERE A BLACKBIRD

If I were a blackbird I'd whistle and sing
I'd follow the transport my true love sails on
And in the top rigging I'd there build my nest
And there beat my wings o'er his bonny white breast.

My love he is handsome in every degree
My parents despise him because he loves me
But let them despise him and say what they will
While there's breath in my body I'll love that lad still.

And if I was a scholar who could handle my pen
I'd write a long letter, to my truelove I'd send
I'd tell of my sorrows, my sad grief and woe
If I could but find him, to my truelove I'd go