I've been a wild rover for many a year

And I've spent all my money on whiskey and beer

But now I'm returning with gold in great store

And never I'll play the wild rover no more



I went to a shanty I used to frequent

And told the landlady my money were spent

I asked her for credit, she answered me "Nay"

Saying, "Customers like you I can get any day"



And it's no nay never

No nay never no more

Will I play the wild rover

No never no more



I drew from my pocket ten sovereigns bright

The landlady's eyes opened wide with delight

Saying, "I have the whiskey and wine of the best

and the words that I told you were only in jest"



And it's no nay never

No nay never no more

Will I play the wild rover

No never no more



I'll go home to my parents, tell them what I've done

And hope they will pardon their prodigal son

And if they will do as so often before

No never I'll play the wild rover no more



And it's no nay never

No nay never no more

Will I play the wild rover

No never no more