Here's my transcription of the version Nutty linked to at Bodleian Ballads - it's quite different from the Albion Band song.

THE CURLY HEADED PLOUGH BOY

A curly headed plough boy, five years ago was I,
I left my father's cottage my fortune for to try.
And now I am a soldier I strut about so gay,
No lad in battle bolder can show more British play.
Always ready when I'm called on, whatever my lot may be,
Although but a simple plough boy that whistled o'er the lea.

I first was made a drummer by comrades up I call,
Our Major soon had learnt me to face a musket ball.
That I was not afraid of - a coward I despise
Should you in battle chance to fall, my drum shall drown your cries.
If my dad and mam should hear this, they much distressed may be,
For fear they'd lose their plough boy, that whistled o're the lea.

For valor now promoted I wear the sword and sash,
With silver lace epaulettes I cut no little dash.
And homeward now returning with honour and with pelf,
My treasure with my dad I'll share, my honour keep myself.
For to him I am most indebted, my birth he gave to me,
I was his little plough boy that whistled o'er the lea.


Pitts, Printer, Wholesale Toy and Marble Warehouse
6, Great St. Andrew Street, 7 dials

Harding B25(459) - between 1819 and 1844