The Book of Scottish Song/Sweet Robin

Sweet Robin.

[From an anonymous sheet of music.]

O where are ye going, sweet Robin?
What makes you sae proud and sae shy?
I once saw the day, little Robin,
My friendship you would not deny.
But winter again is returning,
And weather both stormy and snell:
Gin ye will come back, little Robin,
I'll feed ye wi' moulins mysel'.

When summer comes in, little Robin
Forgets all his friends and his care;
Away to the fields flies sweet Robin,
To wander the groves here and there.
Though you be my debtor, sweet Robin,
On you I will never lay blame;
For I've had as dear friends as Robin,
Who often have served me the same.

I once had a lover like Robin,
Who long for my love did implore;
At last he took flight, just like Robin,
And him I ne'er saw any more.
But should the stern blast of misfortune
Return him, as winter does thee,
Though slighted by both, little Robin,
Yet both of your faults I'll forgi'e.

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