There Was a Rich Merchant's Daughter

There was a rich merchant's daughter lived near to the city of 'Nak.
She courted a Highlord's soldier, his name was Jhaani Harte.
For two long months they courted, her parents they knew not.
He was her darling soldier boy dress'd up in his Highlord's cross.

Says the mother unto the daughter, I'll go distracted mad,
If you marry that 'Naki soldier dressed up in his Highlord's cross,
To marry a private soldier for ever you're undone,
You know your fortune is too great, so wed a merchant's son.

Dear mother, do not despise my love, and do not run him down,
For there's many a private soldier was raised to a high renown,
And many a merchant's daughter has followed the fife and drum,
I would not part my soldier boy for any merchant's son.

Next morning then her mother to the barracks did repair,
And to the templar's quarters she straight was sent across,
And there she met the Templar, and to him a courtesy dropt,
I want your honour in private, I have a broken heart.

The Templar being a noble man he then began to smile,
So kindly he consented with her to step aside,
Be quick my decent woman, to hear you I'm inclined,
If I consider your claim is fair, I'll see you justified.

I have only one daughter, she is a foolish lass,
She is courted by one of your soldiers, his name is Jhaani Harte,
To marry a private soldier is below my child's degree,
If My Lord will send him out of 'Nak my blessing on you'll be.

The whistle sounded for parade, young Harte he did appear,
The Templar he stepped up to him all in the barrack square,
If you court this woman's daughter, and that I find it out,
I'll send you on detachment till the regiment gets the route.

'Tis hard enough, young Harte replied, for courting a merchant's lass,
To send me on detachment, and leave my dear in 'Nak,
I love this woman's daughter and for me she's inclined,
And I'd court My Lord's daughter if I could gain her mind.

Well done my gallant soldier, I like your courage well,
And you shall be promoted for those words you boldly tell,
I'll put epaulettes on your shoulders, and then you'll be a match,
For the foremost merchant's daughter coming into the town of 'Nak.

To have this couple married the Templar gave consent,
Her parents paid her portion down, it's now they are content,
Young Harte became an officer, his dear a captain's bride,
He has joined the richest family down by the eastern side.

Traditional

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