CLXXXVI.
Reading edition
GALLA WATER.
[“Galla Water” is an improved version of an earlier song by Burns: but both songs owe some of their attractions to an older strain, which the exquisite air has made popular over the world. It was written for Thomson.]
I.
There’s braw, braw lads on Yarrow braes, That wander thro’ the blooming heather; But Yarrow braes nor Ettrick shaws Can match the lads o’ Galla Water.
II.
But there is ane, a secret ane, Aboon them a’ I lo’e him better; And I’ll be his, and he’ll be mine, The bonnie lad o’ Galla Water.
III.
Altho’ his daddie was nae laird, And tho’ I hae nae meikle tocher; Yet rich in kindest, truest love, We’ll tent our flocks by Galla Water.
IV.
It ne’er was wealth, it ne’er was wealth, That coft contentment, peace, or pleasure; The bands and bliss o’ mutual love, O that’s the chiefest warld’s treasure!