A Border Ballad
Oh, I have n’t got long to live, for we allDie soon, e’en those who live longest;And the poorest and weakest are taking their chanceAlong with the richest and strongest.So it’s heigho for a glass and a song,And a bright eye over the table,And a dog for the hunt when the game is flush,And the pick of a gentleman’s stable.
There is Dimmock o’ Dune, he was here yester-night,But he ‘s rotting to-day on Glen Arragh;’Twas the hand o’ MacPherson that gave him the blow,And the vultures shall feast on his marrow.But it’s heigho for a brave old songAnd a glass while we are able;Here ‘s a health to death and another cupTo the bright eye over the table.
I can show a broad back and a jolly deep chest,But who argues now on appearance?A blow or a thrust or a stumble at bestMay send me to-day to my clearance.Then it’s heigho for the things I love,My mother ‘ll be soon wearing sable,But give me my horse and my dog and my glass,And a bright eye over the table.