When I was just sixteen years of age,
To the British Army I did engage;
I left my home with a good intent
To join the forty-second regiment.

To Fulwood Barracks I did go,
To serve my time in that depot.
From troubles then I was never free:
My captain took a great dislike to me.

When posted on duty at the barrack gate,
Some soldiers’ children came along to play;
From the officers’ mess my captain came
And ordered me to take their parents’ name.

I took one name instead of three;
‘Neglect of duty’ they did charge me:
Ten days’ C.B. and the loss of pay,
That’s what it cost me for those children’s play.

With a loaded rifle I did swear
I’d shoot my captain on the barrack square;
I aimed my rifle and fired to kill,
And hit my colonel against my will.

At the Liverpool Assizes my trial I stood;
The jury they all banged on wood.
The judge he said, ‘McCafferty,
Prepare yourself for the gallows tree.’

Well, I’ve no mother to break her heart;
I’ve no father to take my part.
I have only one friend, and a girl is she;
She’d lay her life down for McCafferty.

Come all you young officers of the present day,
Just treat your men with civility,
For if you don’t, there’s sure to be
Another hard case like McCafferty.