| Play/Download Music File Lesley Nelson |
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| According to Stan Hugill, this shanty probably originated in the eighteenth century on shore. There are several variants both in England and America. Sources differ as to whether it was a pumping shanty or a forebitter. Hugill says it was "most certainly" used when pumping a ship out. |
He was a saucy sailor boy Who'd come from afar, To ask a maid to be the bride Of a poor Jack tar. The maiden, a poor fisher girl, Stood close by his side; With scornful look she answered thus; I'll not be your bride. You're mad to think I'd marry you Too ragged you are; Begone, you saucy sailor boy, Begone you Jack tar. I've money in my pocket, love, And bright gold in store; These clothes of mine are all in rags, But coin can buy more. Though black my hands my gold is clean So I'll sail afar, A fairer maid than you, I ween, Will wed this Jack tar. Stay! Stay! you saucy sailor boy, Do not sail afar; I love you and will marry you, You silly Jack tar. 'Twas but to tease I answered so, I thought you could guess That when a maiden answers no She always means yes. Begone you pretty fisher girl, Too artful are you; So spake the saucy sailor boy, Gone was her Jack tar. |
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| From
Fifty Sailors' Songs or Chanties and Shanties from the Seven Seas See Bibliography for full information. |
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