I left my home and I left my job
Went and joined the army
If I knew then what I know now
I wouldn't have been so barmy.

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Poor old soldier,
poor old soldier
If I knew then what I know now
I wouldn't have been so barmy.

Gave me a gun and a big red coat
Gave me lots of drilling
If I knew then what I know now
I wouldn't have took the shilling.

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Sent me off on a real old boat
By Christ, she was no beauty
Far far across the sea we went
Afore to do my duty

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Fought the Russians, or was it the French
Really couldn't tell, sir
All I know is they fought so hard
They sent us all to hell, sir.

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When we got back home again
To desert was my intent, sir
I sold my cot and I sold my coat
And over the wall I went, sir.

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Went to a tavern and I got drunk
That is where they found me
Back to barracks in chains I was sent
And there they did impound me.

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Fifty I got for selling me coat
Fifty for selling me blankets
If ever I 'list for a soldier again
The devil shall be me sergeant.

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