One morning early I walked forth
                             By the margin of Lough Leane
                             The sunshine dressed the trees in green
                             And summer bloomed again
                             I left the town and wandered on
                             Through fields all green and gay
                             And whom should I meet but a colleen sweet
                             At the dawning of the day.

                             No cap or cloak this maiden wore
                             Her neck and feet were bare
                             Down to the grass in ringlets fell
                             Her glossy golden hair
                             A milking pail was in her hand
                             She was lovely, young and gay
                             She wore the palm from Venus bright
                             By the dawning of the day.

                             On a mossy bank I sat me down
                             With the maiden by my side
                             With gentle words I courted her
                             And asked her to be my bride
                             She said, "Young man don't bring me blame"
                             And swiftly turned away
                             And the morning light was shining bright
                             At the dawning of the day.