The Poacher's Song Lyrics - Robin Williamson

Words and music RW 1978 

Wake up Jamie strike a light 

For while you were lying dreaming 

I've been up the waterside 

All with the gaff and the lantern 

But the bailiff he's a restless man 

and terrible light in sleeping 

His dogs did bark and his guns did bang 

and damn but he had me running 

and if the bailie comes today 

Inquiring for a salmon 

That maybe might have swum this way 

Snagged onto someone's arm 

Just grit your teeth and squint your eyes 

He'll likely think you're smiling 

and take your hat into your hand 

and bid the man good morning 

Oh, aye, oh, aye, bid the man good morning 

Invite him in for scones and tea 

and laugh at all his joking 

No need at all to let him see 

What's up the chimney smoking 

and if he should inquire for me 

For me or Johnny Brady 

We've been away working several days 

and we'll not be back till Friday 

Oh, aye, oh, aye, bid the man good morning 

Oh, aye, oh, aye, bid the man good morning