Like Jon Freeman (2 Apr 01) my friend Dave Byrne also learned the song from Tommy Flynn of Bangor in the mid-60s, but the version he sings is slightly different in verse arrangement from any posted here so far. In his version the first four lines are repeated as a chorus.


My name's Napoleon Bonaparte, I'm the conqueror of all nations,
I've vanquished German legions, I've sent kings from their thrones,
I've banished dukes and earls and splendid congregations
but now I am transported to St Helena's shore.

My golden eagles were torn down by Wellington's allied armies -
o'er Russian hills through frost and snow I still my laurels wore,
but I severly felt the rod through meddling with the house of God -
coin and golden images in thousands down I tore,
and I stole Malta's golden gates and did the works of God disgrace
but if he'll give me time and place back to Him I will restore.

Some say the cause of my downfall was the parting of my consort;
to wed the German's daughter it grieved my heart full sore,
but the female frame I'll ne'er disdain for she did never me ashame
and she saw me in battle-flame and she did me adore:
now I'm on a desert isle where the rats the devil they would afright
but I hope to shine in armour bright through Europe once more.


It has a magnificent tune which is perfect for singing in harmony in a singaround and which should really be in the DT.

Although I've always admired the sing I felt as well that it was rather short and probably garbled, which turns out to be the case. I think I might work out a longer version using some of the lines from Napoleon's Farewell to Paris.

Incidentally, the tune in the DT for Boney on the Isle of St Helena is very different from the lovely melody which usually goes with this song. Can anyone supply that as well?