O MY trade it is the rarest one，

    Simple shepherds all——

    My trade is a sight to see；

    For my customers I tie， and take 'em up on high，

    And waft 'em to a far countree！

    My tools are but common ones，

    Simple shepherds all——

    My tools are no sight to see：

    A little hempen string， and a post whereon to swing，

    Are implements enough for me！

    To-morrow is my working day，

    Simple shepherds all——

    To-morrow is a working day for me：

    For the farmer's sheep is slain， and the lad who did it ta'en，

    And on his soul may God ha' mer-cy！