Come all you jolly fellows, and I'll sing you a song,
It's all about the shantyboys and it won't take too long,
For it's now that I regret the day while working out in the cold;
Save your money while you're young my boys
You'll need it when you're old.
For once I was a shantyboy, oh wasn't I a lad!
Now it's the way I spent my money, oh wasn't it too bad!
For it's now that I regret the day while working out in the cold,
Save your money while you're young, me boys
You'll need it when you're old.
And if you are a married man I'll tell you what to do,
Be kind to your wife and family as you were pledged to do.
And stay away from grog shops where liquor is bought and sold,
Save your money while you're young me boys
You'll need it when you're old.
And if you are a single lad I'll tell you what to do,
Just find yourself a pretty girl and one who will prove true.
Just find yourself a pretty girl and one who's not to bold,
Who will stick with you through life and be a comfort when you're old.