The Orphan Boy - song lyrics 
American Old-time song lyrics from www.traditionalmusic.co.uk 
THE ORPHAN BOY. 
Stay, lady, stay, for mercy's sake, And hear a helpless orphan's tale; Ah sure my looks must pity wake, 'Tis want that makes my cheeks so pale. 
Yet I was once a mother's pride, And my brave father's hope and joy; But in the Nile's proud fight he died. And I am now an orphan boy. 
Poor foolish child-how pleased was I, When news of Nelson's victory came; Along the crowded streets to fly. And see the lighted windows' flame! 
To force me home my mother songht, She could not bear to see my joy; For with my father's life 'twas bought. And made me a poor orphan boy. 
The people's shouts were long And loud; My mother shuddering. closed her cars: Rejoice! rejoice! still cried the crowd, My mother answered with her tears. 
Why are you crying thus, said I, While others iaugh And shout for joy? She kissed, and with such a sigh. She called me her poor orphan boy 
What is an orphan boy? I said, When suddenly she gasped for breath, And her eyes closed-I shrieked for aid, But, ah! her eyes were closed in deathl 
My hardships since I will not tell; But, now no more a parent's joy: Ah! lady, I have learned too well, What 'tis to be an orphan boy! 
Oh! were I by your bounty fed, Nay, gentle lady, do not chide; Trust me-I. mean to earn my bread, The sailor's orphan boy has pride. 
Lady! you weep-ah! this to me! You give me clothing, food, employ; Look down, dear parents, look and see. Your happy-happy orphan boy.