The words are incorrect, you have cited the watersons version.the version, sung by the people of Holmfirth, Should be Shepherd dear[not swain]and view the land,not view the lambs, yours respectfully.
I don't have time to research the song myself, but I think I'd disagree with the questioning of "swain" and agree with the questioning of "view the lambs." Anybody care to submit corrections to the DT version of the lyrics?
Here are the DT lyrics:
HOLMFIRTH ANTHEM
1. Abroad for pleasure as I was a-walking On one summer summer's evening clear (repeat 1st 2 lines) There I beheld a most beautiful damsel Lamenting for her shepherd swain (bis)
2. The fairest evening that e'er I beheld thee Evermore with the lad I adore Wilt thou go fight the French and Spaniards Wilt thou leave me thus my dear?
3. No more to yon green banks will I take thee With pleasure for to rest myself and view the lambs But I will take thee to yon green gardens Where the pretty flowers grow
From the singing of the Watersons. From the village of Holmfirth in Yorkshire. @parting @love filename[ HOLMFRTH TUNE FILE: HOLMFRTH CLICK TO PLAY JB
10 Nov: I listened to the Watersons recording on their Early Days CD - the DT version is an exact transcription of what the Watersons sing, so we're not likely to want to change the DT entry. -Joe Offer-