I once loved a lass and I loved her so well And I hated all others who spoke of her ill. And now she's rewarded me well for my love, For she's gone and she's wed another.
And I saw my love up to the church go With bride and brides maidens she made a fine show. And I followed on with my heart full of woe For she's gone and she's wed another.
I saw my love as she sat doon to dine. I sat doon beside her and poured the wine. And I thought of the lassie that should have been mine, Now she's gone and she's wed another.
And the men in the forest they asked of me, "How many strawberries grow in the salt sea?" And I answered them with a tear in my eye, "How many ships sail in the forest?"
