DERBYSHIRE SONG

By John Drinkwater

Come loving me to Darley Dale

In spring time or sickle time,

And we will make as proud a tale

As lovers in the antique prime

Of Harry or Elizabeth.

With kirtle green and nodding flowers

To deck my hair and little waist,

I’ ll be worth a lover’ s hours....

Come, fellow, thrive, there is no haste

But soon is worn away in death.

Soon shall the blood be tame, and soon

Our bodies lie in Darley Dale,

Unreckoning of jolly June,

With tongues past telling any tale;

My man, come loving me to-day.

I have a wrist is smooth and brown,

I have a shoulder smooth and white,

I have my grace in any gown

By sun or moon or candle-light....

Come Darley way, come Darley way.