I Would that the Wars were all Done

In the meadow one morning when pearly in dew
A fair pretty maiden plucked violets blue.
I heard her clear voice making all the woods ring:
"Oh my love is in Flanders to fight for the king,
And I would that the wars were well over
Oh I would that the wars were all done."

I'll pluck the red robin so jaunty and gay;
Yet I have my Robin, but he's far away.
His jacket is red - and his cheeks - as the rose;
He sings of his Nell as to battle he goes.
And I would that the wars were well over
Oh I would that the wars were all done.

Ten thousand of bluebells now welcome the spring;
Oh when will the church bells for victory ring?
And the soldiers return and all England rejoice?
Oh then I'll be wed to the lad of my choice.
And I would that the wars were well over
Oh I would that the wars were all done.

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