Greenwood Laddie by Shirley Collins Lyrics

Did you see my dearest, with his eyes of the clearest
His cheeks like red blood that's new dropped on snow?
For he was tall, dark and slender, his arms warm and tender
He'll be my greenwood laddie wherever he may be

My parents, my darling, they slight you with scorn
Because you have no riches wrapped up in store
But the more that they slight you, the more I invite you
To be my greenwood laddie whom I'd always adore

For if I had the wealth of the East or West Indies
Or if I had the gold of the African shore
Or if I could gain thousands, I'd nest on your bosom
And you'd be my greenwood laddie and the boy I adore

It was down in those bowers where I spend many happy hours
A-plugging the flowers in his company
And it was his stolen kisses gave me my heart's wishes
He'll be my greenwood laddie till time is no more