I Wish the Wars Were All Over

[Verse 1]

Down by deep water where sweet linden stand

I saw pretty Polly wringing her hands

The song that she sung made the whole grove to ring

My Billy has left me to fight for a king

And I wish the wars were all over

[Verse 2]

I stood in amaze to hear what she said

I'll follow my Billy whether living or dead

The notes that she sung were the nightingale's notes

How the lark and the linnet they warble their throats

And I wish the wars were all over

[Verse 3]

I said my dear Polly if you'll stay with me

I'll make you as happy as happy can be

No then she said that never can be

I'll never be happy till my Billy I see

And I wish the wars were all over

[Verse 4]

Now from my parents I'll haste and away

I'll dress myself out in a young man's array

And every company that I pass by

I'll ask for my Billy or where he does lie

And I wish the wars were all over