I[D] had a true love if[A] ever a girl[G] had[A] one
I[D] had a true love a[A] brave[G] lad was[A] he
And[G] one fine Easter monday[D] with his gallant comrades
He started away for to[A] make Ireland[D] free
[Chorus]
So all around me hat I wear a tricolour ribbon
All around me hat untill death comes to me
And if anybody's asking why do I wear it
It's all for my own true love I never more will see.
He whispered goodbye love old Ireland is calling
High over Dublin our tricolour flies
In the streets of our city the foeman is calling
The wee birds are whistling old Ireland arise
His bandolier around him his bright bayonet shining
His short service rifle a beauty to see
There was joy in his eyes though he left me repining
And started away for to make Ireland free
In praying and waiting the dark days passed over
The roar of the guns brought no message to me
I prayed for old Ireland I prayed for my lover
That he might be saved and old Ireland be free
The struggle was ended they brought me the story
The last whispered message he sent on to me
I was true to the land love I fought for her glory
And gave up my life for to make Ireland free.
