Err it's on our second album but himself sings it... Am I right in thinking it's in Peter Kennedy? (Bunny - are you there)?

I think Napper started with the Heaney version but may have folk-processed it, plus I may have mis-remembered somewhat (OK, he may sing it in my left ear every gig but I'm otherwise occupied with the mandocello, orright?). And quite rightly, the words may vary from gig to gig in traditional fashion according to mood and inclination.


The first day of April I shall not forget
When two English rogues together they met
Intending to trick the first person they'd spy
And Campbell the Rover he chanced to ride by

On Campbell the Rover they cast a sly eye
They've mounted their horses they've rode alongside
They've greeted Campbell and he's done the same
And in close conversation together they came.

They came to an inn where they made a full stop
They asked Campbell in for to share a wee drop
Campbell's consented, says he with a grin
I don't mind if I do, and he's followed them in.

Well tumblers of whiskey they followed/washed down with wine
25 shillins it cost them each time
There was more for the horses, for oats and for hay
And they meant to leave Campbell with the reckoning to pay

These two English rogues slipped out the back door
Leaving Campbell behind for to settle the score
In came the Landlord to Campbell did say
Your friends they have gone so the reckoning you'll pay

Never mind it says Campbell since they've gone away
For I've plenty of money your reckoning to pay
But come sit down beside me before I do go
And I'll show you a trick that perhaps you don't know

I'll show you a trick quite contrary to law
For two sorts of drink from one barrel I can draw
The Landlord was keen for to find out this plan
So down below cellar with Campbell he ran

He's bored him a hole in one end of a vat
Saying Landlord look sharp, stick your hand over that
Then he's bored him another, saying place your other hand there
While I for two tumblers/glasses do run up the stair

He's mounted his horse he was soon out of sight
Leaving the Landlord downstairs to his plight
In came the ale wife she's laughed at this sport
Saying husband, dear husband, you've been very well caught.

Now Campbell's last words they still echoed around
Saying you've been well paid by this trick I'll be bound
My score is settled, there's nothing to pay
Now I must be going for it's nearly mid-day.

(I think this end may be TN's own - the previous version may have had a fol-di-whack sort of refrain and a less punchy-liney ending, but I'm just going on the stage intro here!)

CD available here: Tom Napper Tom Bliss: The Kelping