17
Black eyed Susan.
All in the Downs the fleet was moor'd,
The streamers waving in the wind;
When Black eyed Susan came on board,
O where shall I my true love find?
Tell me ye joval sailors tell me true,
If my sweet William sails among your crcw.
William’ who high upon the yard,
Rock'd with the billows to and fro,
Soon as her well known voice he heard,
He sigh'd and cast his eyes below:
The cord glides swiftly thro' his glowing hands,
And quick as lightning on the deck he stands.
So the sweet lark high pois'd in air,
Shuts close his pinions to his breast,
If chance his mate's shrill cry he hear,
And drops into her nest:
The noblest captain in the British fleet,
Might envy William's lips, those kisses sweet.
O Susan, Susan lovely dear,
My vows shall ever true remain;
Let me kiss off that fallen tear,
We only part to meet again:
Change as you list, ye winds my heart shall be
The faithful compass that still points to thee.
Believe not what the landmen say,
Who tempt with doubts thy constant mind;
They'll tell thee, sailors when away,
In every port a mistress find;
Yes, yes, believe them, when they tell thee so,
For thou art present wheresoe'er I go.
