It was in the town of Tralee, an apprentice to trade I was bound
We had plenty of happy amusement to make the long evenings go 'round
'Till misfortune and ruin came o'er me, which caused me to leave from the land
Far away from my friends and companions to follow the black velvet band

Chorus:
And her eyes they shone like the diamonds, you'd think she was queen of the land
With her hair hanging over her shoulder, tied up with a black
velvet band

As I dandered along on the highway, not intending to stay very long
I met with a sweet little damsel and she coming tripping along
A watch she pulled out of her pocket and slipped it right into my hand
On the very first day that I met her, bad luck to the black velvet band

Chorus

Before judge and jury next morning, the both of us we did appear
And the gentleman swore to the jewelry, the case against us, it was clear
For seven long years transportation, I was hunted to Van Dieman's land
Far away from my friends and relations to follow the black velvet band

Chorus

Now, come all you sporting young fellows, a warning be taking from me
And beware of the sweet little damsels that are hanging around in Tralee
They'd treat you to whiskey and porter until you're not able to stand
And before you have time to get sober, you're landed in Van Dieman's land

Chorus