One kiss, my bonny sweetheart
I’m after a prize to-night
But I shall be back with the yellow gold
Before the morning light;
Yet, if they press me sharply
And harry me through the day
Then look for me by moonlight
Watch for me by moonlight
I’ll come to thee by moonlight
Though hell should bar the way

Oh Bess, my bonny sweetheart
Light of my crooked life
I'll bring you back that yellow gold
And make you a bonny wife
Oh don't cry for me darling
It's the last time you'll hear me say:
To look for me by moonlight
Watch for me by moonlight
I’ll come to thee by moonlight
And tomorrow we'll be away

One kiss, my bonny sweetheart
I’m after a prize tonight
But I shall be back with the yellow gold
Before the morning light;
Yet, if they press me sharply
And harry me through the day
Then look for me by moonlight
Watch for me by moonlight
I’ll come to thee by moonlight
Though hell should bar the way