More Burns today. This one from 1794 is Robbie Burns doing his best to woo a(nother) fair maid. If you need some help translating Burns-isms, you can visit RobertBurns.org The tune is based on the Strathspey “The Rothiemurchus Rant.”

From the BBC’s Transatlantic Sessions, this performance is by Karen Mattheson.

Lass Wi’ the Lint White Locks

Chorus:
Lassie wi’the lint-white locks,
Bonie lassie, artless lassie,
Wilt thou wi’ me tent the flocks,
Wilt thou be my Dearie, O?

Now Nature cleeds the flowery lea,
And a’ is young and sweet like thee,
O wilt thou share its joys wi’ me,
And say thou’lt be my Dearie, O.
Chorus

The primrose bank, the wimpling burn,
The cuckoo on the milk-white thorn,
The wanton lambs at early morn,
Shall welcome thee, my Dearie, O.
Chorus

And when the welcome simmer shower
Has cheer’d ilk drooping little flower,
We’ll to the breathing woodbine bower,
At sultry noon, my Dearie, O.
Chorus

When Cynthia lights, wi’ silver ray,
The weary shearer’s hameward way,
Thro’ yellow waving fields we’ll stray,
And talk o’ love, my Dearie, O.
Chorus

And when the howling wintry blast
Disturbs my Lassie’s midnight rest,
Enclasped to my faithfu’ breast,
I’ll comfort thee, my Dearie, O.
Chorus