Fairport Convention The Deserter Lyrics

The Deserter Lyrics

As I was a-walking down Radcliffe highway

A recruiting party came a-beating my way

They enlisted me and treated me till I did not know

And to the Queen's barracks they forced me to go



When first I deserted, I thought myself free

Until my cruel comrade informed against me

I was quickly followed after and brought back with speed

I was handcuffed and guarded, heavy irons put on me



Court martial, court martial, they help upon me

And the sentence passed upon me, three hundred and three

May the Lord have mercy on them for their sad cruelty

For now the Queen's duty lies heavy on me



When next I deserted, I thought myself free

Until my cruel sweetheart informed against me

I was quickly followed after and brought back with speed

I was handcuffed and guarded, heavy irons put on me



Court martial, court martial, then quickly was got

And the sentence passed upon me, that I was to be shot

May the Lord have mercy on them for their sad cruelty

For now the Queen's duty lies heavy on me



Then up rode Prince Albert in his carriage and sticks

Saying "Where is that young man whose coffin is fixed?

Set him free from his irons and let him go free

For he'll make a good soldier for his Queen and country