The Teuchter’s Lament

An original song contributed by Edinburgh Shanty Night attendee Chris

As I roved down upon the quay, a wonder I did feel

Can I remember the difference 'tween the bow and the keel?

I'm a laddie fae the east but west is where I'd rather be

I climbed aboard the ship and then the captain said to me

Heave haul, row ho

What do we want tonight?

Heave haul, row ho 

A maiden fair and bright

As we swung her round the minch, I remembered of my dream

Of glory and treasure upon the waters o the Hebrides 

A sabre by my side and a flintlock in my hand 

Whisky and tobacco out a hundred miles fae land

Now take a pew on the starboard side and I'll tell you of my plight 

A sailors life is not for me it's far from a pretty sight

There's disease, squalls, rats and all

Mutiny, theft and bile

I long to be upon the shore in the cellar o the Argylle 

And soon the years passed, I began to grow old

What have I got to show for it but a few scraps of gold?

I dreamt of her nightly, oh that maiden fair and bright

So trust me boys when I tell you boys, being a sailor is shite