La Ligne Holworth [English translation]

Ted Holworth was a great man

whose money came from the sea

All the respectable parishioners

were admiring of his iron-like devotion (x2)

Doubtlessly, he did not very much conflate

Business and emotion

But his words were sincere

That's at least what people said (x2)

He had all the traits of an honest man

But the truth must be said

There was a dark side to him

And his ships were cursed (x2)

They carried to the antipodes

Men chained by the foot

Convicts of blood crimes or pilfering

And those guilty of high treason (x2)

They’ve offended The Queen

or else committed murder to steal from other

But they were dragging the same chain

as the innocent people who endured humiliation (x2)

The first one were going to hell

For an abhorred crime

They did not want to keep silent

Out of love of truth (x2)

The hull was smelly and black

The wardens were like wolves

So much misery, despair

Were enough to make you crazy (x2)

Since the world changed a lot

Holworth’s line has changed its guise

It is very well regarded

Its success truly is a wonder (x2)

There aren't any more convicts in the ships' holds

But the sailors shout as they did before

Under its glorious flag

It carries emigrants