I wish my love was a red, red rose growing on yon garden fair
And me to be the gardener, of her I would take care
There's not a month throughout the year, but my love I'd renew
I'd garnish her with flowers fine, sweet William, Thyme and Rue

I wish I was a butterfly, I'd light on my love's breast
And if I was a blue cuckoo, I'd sing my love to rest
And if I was a nightingale, I'd sing to daylight clear
I'd sit and sing for you my Mollie, for once I loved you dear

I wish I was in Dublin, a rolling on the grass
In my right hand a jug of punch and on my knee a lass
I'd call for liquor freely and I'd pay before I'd go
And I'd roll her in my arms, let the wind blow high or low