I once loved a lass
I loved her so well
I hated all others who thought of her ill
Now she rewarded me well for my love
For she's gone to be wed to another
When I saw my love to the church go
The bride and bridesmaidens they made a fine show
And I followed on with my heart full of woe
For she's gone to be wed to another
When I saw my love sit down to dine
I sat down beside her and poured out the wine
And drank to the lassie that should have been mine
Now she's gone to be wed to another
The birds of the air they ask it of me
How many strawberries grow in the salt sea
I answer them back with a tear in my eye
How many ships sail in your forests
Go dig my grave
Go dig it deep
And cover it over with flowers so sweet
Then I'll lay down for to take my last sleep
And maybe in time I'll forget her
I once loved a lass
I loved her so well
I hated all others who thought of her ill
Now she rewarded me well for my love
For she's gone to be wed to another