My Butcher Boy
Lyrics
In Durham city where I did dwell
A butcher boy, I loved right well
He courted me throughout each day
And stole my willing heart away
He took one half of a silver coin
And I the other, so we were joined
I pledged to him and he to me
Eternal love in constancy
Mother dear, come over here,
See who’s looking in my window
It’s the little butcher boy,
With a cleaver in his hand
Oh Mam, he’s got to marry me
Oh Mam, he’s mad as mad can be
He fills my heart with joy
My butcher boy
I wore wildflowers in my hair
My fine dress fluttered in the air
With blue garters above my knee
To show the passion felt by me
Through the Shambles we made our way
To the church on that fine day
From the tower the bells were ringing
From the stalls the choir was singing
Father dear, you’ve led me here,
Now you’re standing next to me
By the little butcher boy
With a gold ring in his hand
Oh Dad, he’s gone and married me
O Dad, I’m as happy as I can be!
He fills my heart with joy
My butcher boy
The Market Place was filled with noise
Men and women, girls and boys
They threw wheat over my head
To make me fruitful in my bed
There were cakes and wedding pies
Fine wine and ale in great supply
While marrow bones and cleavers rang
To a rhythmic din while voices sang
My friends dear, come over here
Lead me to my chamber
With the little butcher boy
As we go hand-in-hand
Dear friends this night he will bed me
And we’re as eager as we can be
He fills my heart with joy
My butcher boy
My butcher boy
(Gary Miller)
© 2019 Whippet Records
Copyright Control MCPS/PRS
Helen Temperley's first illustration from the project 'The Butcher Baronet'.
Notes
This song was commissioned and specially-written for the upcoming project 'The Butcher Baronet', in collaboration with Lone Pine Pictures, about the 17th Century Durham City historical figure John Duck.
Other songs and tunes from this project include : -
'Golden Journey: Through Air / Over Water / To Earth / On Fire'
