Erin-go-Bragh [English translation]

My name’s Duncan Campbell from the shire of Argyll

I’ve travelled this country for many a mile

I’ve travelled through Ireland, Scotland and all

And the name I go under is bold Erin-go-Bragh

One night in Edinburgh I walked down the street

When I chanced to meet a saucy big policeman

He glowered in my face and he gave me some jaw

Saying when came you over, bold Erin-go-Bragh?

Well, I am not a Pat though in Ireland I’ve been

Nor am I a Paddy though Ireland I’ve seen

But were I a Paddy that’s nothing at all

For there’s many bold heroes in Erin-go-Bragh

Well I know you’re a Pat by the cut of your hair

But you all turn to Scotsman as soon as you’re here

You left your own country for breaking the law

And we’re seizing all stragglers from Erin-go-Bragh

And were I a Pat and you know it was true

Or was I the Devil, then what’s that to you?

Were it not for the stick that you hold in your paw

I’d show you a game played in Erin-go-Bragh

And a lump of blackthorn that I held in my fist

Around his big body I made it to twist

And the blood from his napper I quickly did draw

And paid him stock-and-interest for Erin-go-Bragh

But the people came around like a flock of wild geese

Saying: catch that damn rascal he has killed the policeman

And for every friend I had I’m sure he had two

It was terrible hard times for Erin-go-Bragh

But I came to a little boat that sailed in the Forth

And I packed up my gear and I headed northwards

Farewell to Edinburgh, your policeman and all

And walk with the Devil, says Erin-go-Bragh

So come all you young people, wherever you’re from

I don’t give a damn to what place you belong

I come from Argyll in the Highlands so beautiful

But I never took it ill being called Erin-go-Bragh