The Deserter Lyrics - Liege & Life - Fairport Convention

As I was a-walking along Radcliffe highway 

A recruiting party came a-beating my way 

They enlisted me and treated me 'til 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 held 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 

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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 

Photos 

Then up rode Prince Albert in his carriage and six 

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"