In Newry Town I was bred and born
In Steven's Green now I'll lie in scorn
I served my time at the saddler's trade
And I always was a roving blade

At seventeen I took a wife
And I loved her dearer than I loved my life
And for to keep her both fine and gay
I went a-robbing on the King's highway

I've never robbed any poor man yet
Nor any tradesman caused I to fret
But I robbed Lords and their Ladies fine
And I carried their gold home to my heart's delight

To Covent Garden I took my way
With my dear wife for to see the play
Lord Fielding's men, they did me pursue
And taken was I by that cursed crew

My father cried "My darling son"
My wife, she cried "I am undone"
My mother tore her white locks and cried
That in the cradle I should have died

When I am dead, aye, and for my grave
A flashy funeral pray let me have
Six highwaymen for to carry me
Give them broadswords and sweet liberty

Six pretty fair maids to bear my pall
Give them white ribbons and green garlands all
When I am dead, they  may speak the truth
"He was a wild and a wicked youth"

In Newry Town I was bred and born
In Steven's Green now I'll lie in scorn
I served my time at the saddler's trade
And I always was a roving blade