1.
When fancy first framèd our likings in love,
(Sing all of green willow)
And faithful affection such motion did move;
(For willow, willow, willow, willow)
Where pleasure was plenty we chancèd to be,
(Sing all of green willow)
There were we enthrallèd of our liberty,
And forced to carry the willow garland.
2.
This young man we likèd and lovèd full dear,
(Sing all of green willow)
And in our heart’s closet we kept him full near.
(Sing willow, willow, willow, willow)
He was our heart’s pleasure and all our delight;
(Sing all of green willow)
We judged him the sweetest of all men in sight,
Who gives us unkindly the willow garland.
3.
No cost we accounted too much for his sake;
(Sing all of green willow)
Fine bands and handkerchers for him we did make.
(Sing willow, willow, willow, willow)
And yet, for our good will, our travel and pain,
(Sing all of green willow)
We have gotten nothing but scorn and disdain;
As plainly is proved by this willow garland.
4.
Then pardon our boldness, thou gentle fair bride;
(Sing all of green willow)
We speak by experience of that we have tried.
(Sing willow, willow, willow, willow)
Our overmuch courtesy bred all our woe,
(Sing all of green willow)
But never hereafter we mean so to do,
For this only brought us the willow garland.