ROOSKA HILL
(traditional?)

One day for recreation, all easy in my mind,
The fields around were gaily crowned with flowers of every kind;
About midday I chanced to stray down by a purling rill,
And as I did pass I met a lass going down by Rooska Hill.

She was not vain but straight and plain and she was not too tall
I own she wore a purple robe likewise a knitted shawl.
Her flashing hair was blowing fair and she my eyes did fill
I really thought she was a queen that strayed to Rooska Hill.

Struck with amaze as I did gaze as she stood in my view
My heart did leap with such a heat I thought 'twould break in two
I then arose and did propose and said with right good will
Will you come with me my dearest dear tonight to Rooska Hill.

Oh no not I she did reply I can't grant your request
I'm waiting here for my Willie dear the lad that I love best.
I'll meet him yet about sunset down by the purling rill
And we both will roam along the grove tonight at Rooska Hill.

Oh pity me my dearest dear for I've a broken heart
'Twould be my doom to face the tomb if from you I must part.
With troubled mind I am inclined myself I'll surely kill
My heart quite cold you will behold tonight at Rooska Hill.

With a heavy sigh she then drew nigh and took me by the hand
Saying come with me my dearest dear we'll join in wedlock's band
For future life to be your wife for better or for ill
We'll bless the day we came that way to the foot of Rooska Hill.


A song from County Limerick, from the singing of Joe Kerins, Manchester UK 2001

NK