2. 2:26 Jim Watson
Ma Bhuannaich Thu Nighean Ghrinn

If You Win a Fair Maid

Chorus:
If you win a fair maid
Do not be dejected, lad
If you win a fair maid

1. One day when in Stornoway, I was eager to set sail.

2. We hoisted the canvas as we sailed through the straits quickly.
 

3. We hoisted the jib-sails, and we set them above the sea.
 

4. We hoisted the mainsail, and she would tack to windward.
 

5. We hoisted the foresail, and she (the ship) sped along prettily.
 

6. And when she would rise on the crest of the waves, she would pound the green sea.
 

7. Lad, do not be anxious, the sucking billow will not reach her shoulder.
 

8. Lad, be not afraid, as long as the rudder will turn her around.
 

9. I will give you a mare and a foal, and the best portion of the cattle-fold.
 

10. I will give you a cow and a calf, and we will give you a sheep and a lamb.
 

11. They spread a gossiping report about me throughout the village, tat I was the lover of the red-haired damsel.

(Source: Gaelic Songs in Nova Scotia, page 286)