THE APPRENTICE BOY

When first I went to sea, apprentice bound
I sailed the salt seas all round and round
I scarce had sailed a voyage but one
When I fell in love with my charming Ann

I went to my Captain, both stout and bold
And unto him my secret told
I love yonder lass as I love my life
What would I give if she were my wife

Well, the Captain said, you're a foolish boy
For to court a girl that you'll ne'er enjoy
For she'll have lovers when you're at sea
And she'll be married e'er you be free

Well, I don't know but I'll go and try
For she might fancy an apprentice boy
And she might alter her mind for me
And wait on me until I be free

Well, I bought her ribbons and I bought her doves
These things to prove of a heart that loves
She accepted all and she was not shy
And she vowed she'd wait for her apprentice boy

When my ship is anchored and my work is o'er
I'll steer my barque for sweet Erin's shore
In my native country, my love I'll enjoy
And she'll welcome home her apprentice boy

So come all you sea apprentices where'er you be
Never slight your true love when you're at sea
Just love her as you love your life
And she'll consent to become your wife


In 1984 I made it to the Willie Clancy Festival which is held in the town of Miltown Malbay in County Clare, Ireland. I attended the Singing Workshop that year and heard Róisín White sing this lovely song which I understand she had from the late Joe Holmes. The Apprentice Boy offers a more romantic view of the sailor and is one of my favorite sea songs. It has been recorded by Róisín White on her album The First of My Rambles. In the first line of the fifth verse Róisín sings "bought her gloves" which I though I heard as "bought her doves." Cathal McConnell also recorded this song on one of the Boys of the Lough albums.

Radriano