Classic Poem

On the far side of Doon Bridge
there is news at this time;
'twere joyful for us to be there,
when they gathered in camp.
To go over to Ireland
we will never refuse;
if Hay be our leader
what ill can befall us?
What ill can befall us,
what ill can befall us,
if Hay be our leader
what ill can befall us?

Without demur we will go
to Ireland forthwith;
'tis a joy to us all
how events have turned out;
our valiant officers will be
trimly equipped,
and, behind them, the soldiers
well-prepared for action.
Well-prepared for action, &c.

The stalwart Breadalbane men
and virile Argyll men,
you are famous in Scotland,
with your force leading off;
the King made you an offer
that roused pride in your face;
he is confident you will go
and confirm their repute.
And confirm their repute, &c.

If there is one without pride
in the whole of this camp,
who will not go with comrades
when proceeding on service,
what should the rest do with him
but leave him behind,
to be with his mother, inactive,
somewhere by himself?
Somewhere by himself, &c.

We have with us the Gaels
who are bold in pursuit,
the strong, handsome heroes,
who were wont to be hardy;
we will go to Port Patrick,
we care not how soon—
early the day after tomorrow,
and without delay put to sea.
And without delay put to sea, &c.

When the white-sailed ships
make a landing in Ireland,
what will those rebels do,
who rose in revolt?
Take to flight and disperse,
borne down in retreat,
be distressed and in need
of concord and peace.
Of concord and peace, &c.