From the recording Waters of Tyne
Words for this song were first published in 1793 with the first recorded tune written down in the 1880's. It is the first song I ever sang for Frank Harte, he was very excited because it was new to him, so he made me sing it over and over again. I think of him fondly when I sing it.
Lyrics
Waters of Tyne
I cannot get tae my love if I would dee
The waters of Tyne run between him and me
So here I must stand wi a tear in my ee
All sighin and sobbin, my true love to see
Oh where is the boatman, my bonny hinney
Oh where is the boatman, bring him to me
To ferry me over the Tyne to my hinney
Or skull him across the rough river to me
Oh where is the boatman I'll give any money
And you for your troubles rewarded shall be
If you'll carry me over the Tyne to my hinney
And I will remember the boatman and thee