Six Ribbons

Jon English

If I were a minstrel I’d sing you six love songs
To tell the whole world of the love that we share
If I were a merchant I’d bring you six diamonds
With six blood red roses for my love to wear

But I am a simple man, a poor common farmer
So take my six ribbons to tie back your hair

If I were a nobleman I’d bring you six carriages
And six snow white horses to take you anywhere
If I were the emperor I’d build you six palaces
With six hundred servants for comforting fare

But I am a simple man, a poor common farmer
So take my six ribbons to tie back your hair

If I were a minstrel I’d sing you six love songs
To tell the whole world of the love that we share
So be not afraid love, you’re never alone love
While you wear my ribbons to tie back your hair

Once I was a simple man, a poor common farmer
I gave you six ribbons to tie back your hair

Too-ra-lee, too-ra-lie, all I can share
Is only six ribbons to tie back your hair

This song was the theme of the 70’s TV mini-serie Against the Wind, which told the tale of English and Irish convicts transported to early Australia. The songs composer, Jon English, had a leading role in the series as Jonathan Garrett.