The last verse in this version, which i learned from the late mary ryan of springfield, massachusetts, refers to the "american wake". the family and friends of one who had planned to emigrate to america would gather the night before the journey to have a wake in the emigrants honor. the traveler was never expected to be seen again.
Our ship it is ready, to sail away
so come my sweet comrades, over the stormy sea
her snow white wings are all unfurled and
soon shall swim in a watery world
Chorus
don't forget love, do not grieve
for my heart is true-and cannot deceive
my hand and heart, i give to you
so farewell my love, and remember me.
Farewell to dublin's hills and braes;
to kiliney mountain's silvery stream
where's many the fine long summers day,
we loitered hours of joy away
Chorus
It's now i must pay a long adieu
to wicklow and its beauties too
avoca's vale, where lovers meet
there to discourse in whispers sweet
Chorus
Farewell to my parents, with the tears rolling down
to my friends and relations and neighbors all 'round
the last night is passed, now comes the day
but you will be my thoughts when faraway