The Whitby Maid

[Verse 1] There was a maid in Whitby town, She’d smile through rain and weather, A sailor fresh from seven seas Found her there with thread and leather. “Come with me, my bonny girl, Let’s drink and spend my money!” She winked and said, “My father’s out — And gone to catch some herring, honey!” [Chorus – gang vocals] Blow away, you northern winds, Blow away so cruelly! But none so cruel as a pretty maid — They’ll rob you surely! [Verse 2] They drank in every tavern door, They laughed ‘til stars were shining, The Whitby waves were rolling in, The night was close and blinding. She took him home, she took his hand, And whispered, “Come upstairs now…” But crashing through, her father came — And roared, “Who’s this that dares now?!” [Chorus – gang vocals] Blow away, you northern winds, Blow away so cruelly! But none so cruel as a pretty maid — They’ll rob you surely! [Bridge – shouted over breakbeat] Boots on the floor, coins on the table, They split the haul while they were able, Coat, watch, gold — all neatly shared, And back to the harbour the sailor fared! [Chorus – repeat twice, last line shouted] Blow away, you northern winds, Blow away so cruelly! But none so cruel as a pretty maid — THEY’LL ROB YOU SURELY!