THERE 1 was a lad was born in Kyle,
But whatna day o whatna style,
I doubt its hardly worth the while
To be sae nice wi Robin.
Chor.Robin was a rovin boy,
Rantin, rovin, rantin, rovin,
Robin was a rovin boy,
Rantin, rovin, Robin!
Our monarchs hindmost year but ane
Was five-and-twenty days begun, 2
Twas then a blast o Janwar win
Blew hansel in on Robin.
Robin was, &c.
The gossip keekit in his loof,
Quo scho, Wha lives will see the proof,
This waly boy will be nae coof:
I think well ca him Robin.
Robin was, &c.
Hell hae misfortunes great an sma,
But aye a heart aboon them a,
Hell be a credit till us a
Well a be proud o Robin.
Robin was, &c.
But sure as three times three mak nine,
I see by ilka score and line,
This chap will dearly like our kin,
So leeze me on thee! Robin.
Robin was, &c.
Guid faith, quo, scho, I doubt you gar
The bonie lasses lie aspar;
But twenty fauts ye may hae waur
So blessins on thee! Robin.
Robin was, &c.
Note 1. Not published by Burns. [back]
Note 2. January 25, 1759, the date of my bardships vital existence.R. B. [back]