When First Unto This Country a Stranger I Came
(Traditional - arranged by Peggy Seeger)

When first unto this country, a stranger I came,
But I courted a fair maid, Nancy was her name.

I courted her for love, her love I did not obtain;
Do you think I've any reason or right to complain?

I rode to see my Nancy, I rode both night and day,
I rode to see my Nancy, I rode all the way.

I rode to see my Nancy, I rode both day and night,
Then I stole a fine grey horse who belonged to captain Grey

But the Sheriff's men they followed and overtaken me
And they carted me away to the penitentiary

They beat me up, they banged me, and then they fed me on dry beans
'Til I wished to my own soul I'd never been a thief.

With my hands all in my pockets and my cap set on so bold
And my coat of many colors Like Jacob's of old.

When first unto this country, a stranger I came
I courted a fair maid, Nancy was her name