The Stranger’s Song

(As sung by Mr. Charles Charrington in the play of “The Three Wayfarers”)

    O My trade it is the rarest one,
                                       Simple shepherds all—
                My trade is a sight to see;
    For my customers I tie, and take ’em up on high,
           And waft ’em to a far countree!

    My tools are but common ones,
                                       Simple shepherds all—
                My tools are no sight to see:
    A little hempen string, and a post whereon to swing,
           Are implements enough for me!

      To-morrow is my working day,
                                       Simple shepherds all—
                To-morrow is a working day for me:
      For the farmer’s sheep is slain, and the lad who did it ta’en,
           And on his soul may God ha’ mer-cy!