Classic Poem

As I wandered down Ratcliffe Highway
The recruiting party came beating that way;
They enlisted me and treated me, till I did not know;
Then to the Queen's barracks they forced me to go.

When first I deserted I thought myself free
When my cruel comrade informed against me;
I was quickly followed after, and brought back with speed,
I was handcuff'd and guarded, heavy irons on me.

Court martial, court martial they held upon me,
And the sentence they passed was three hundred and three.
May the Lord have mercy on their souls for their sad cruelty,
For now the Queen's duty lies heavy on me.

Then again I deserted and thought I was free,
When my cruel sweetheart informed against me,
I was quickly followed after, and brought back with speed,
I was handcuff'd and guarded, heavy irons on me.

Court martial, court martial was very soon got,
And the sentence they passed was that I should be shot.
May the Lord have mercy on their souls for their sad cruelty,
For now the Queen's duty lies heavy on me.

Then up rode Prince Albert in his coach and six:
" Bring to me that young man whose death it is fixed.
Release him from his irons and let him go free,
For he'll make a clever soldier for his Queen and country!"