For A’ That
by
Song–for A’ That[1]
Tune–“For a’ that.”
Tho’ women’s minds, like winter winds,
May shift, and turn, an’ a’ that,
The noblest breast adores them maist–
A consequence I draw that.
Chorus
For a’ that, an’ a’ that,
And twice as meikle’s a’ that;
The bonie lass that I loe best
She’ll be my ain for a’ that.
Great love I bear to a’ the fair,
Their humble slave, an’ a’ that;
But lordly will, I hold it still
A mortal sin to thraw that.
For a’ that, etc.
But there is ane aboon the lave,
Has wit, and sense, an’ a’ that;
A bonie lass, I like her best,
And wha a crime dare ca’ that?
For a’ that, etc.
In rapture sweet this hour we meet,
Wi’ mutual love an’ a’ that,
But for how lang the flie may stang,
Let inclination law that.
For a’ that, etc.
Their tricks an’ craft hae put me daft.
They’ve taen me in, an’ a’ that;
But clear your decks, and here’s–“The Sex!”
I like the jads for a’ that.
For a’ that, etc.
1785
[Footnote 1: A later version of “I am a bard of no regard” in “The Jolly Beggars.”]