Traditional English Folk — Rogues March

I left my home and I left my job Went and joined the army If I knew then what I know now I wouldn't have been so barmy Chorus: Poor old soldier, poor old soldier If I knew then what I know now I wouldn't have been so barmy Gave me a gun and a big red coat Gave me lots of drilling If I knew then what I know now I wouldn't have took the shilling Chorus:.. Sent me off on a real old boat By Christ she was no beauty Far far across the sea we went Afore to do my duty Chorus:.. Fought the Russians, or was it the French Really couldn't tell, sir All I know is they fought so hard They sent us all to hell, sir Chorus:.. When we got back home again To desert was my intent, sir I sold my cot and I sold my coat And over the wall I went, sir Chorus:.. Went to a tavern and I got drunk That is where they found me Back to barracks in chains I was sent And there they did impound me Chorus: .. Fifty I got for selling me coat Fifty for me blankets If ever I 'list for a soldier again The devil shall be me sergeant Last Chorus - Repeat: Poor old soldier, poor old soldier If ever I 'list for a soldier again The devil shall be me sergeant