The Who Follow

For a gentleman to partake occasionally of ratafia
Which was a light-flavored liquer of amazing potency
Which originated in Middlesex
And which we suppose is the reason for this song

Oh, Miss Bailey
Unfortunate, Miss Bailey

A captain bold in Halifax, who dwelt in country quarters
Seduced a maid who hung herself one Monday in her garters
His wicked conscience smitted him, he lost his stomach daily
He took to drinking ratafia and thought upon Miss Bailey

Oh, Miss Bailey
Unfortunate, Miss Bailey

One night bedtimes he went to bed for he had caught the fever
Said he, "I am a handsome man and I'm a gay deceiver"
His candle just at twelve o'clock began to burn quite palely
A ghost stepped up to his bedside and said, "Behold, Miss Bailey!"

Oh, Miss Bailey
Unfortunate, Miss Bailey

"Avast, Miss Bailey", then he cried, "You can't affright me, really"
"Dear Captain Smith", the ghost replied, "You used me ungently
The coronor's quest goes hard with me because I've acted freely
And Parson Biggs won't bury me tho' I'm a dead Miss Bailey"

Oh, Miss Bailey
Unfortunate, Miss Bailey

"Dear Ma'am", says he, "Since you and I must once for all accounts close
I have a one pound note in my regimental small clothes
'Twill bribe the sexton for your grave", the ghost then answered gaily
"Bless you, wicked Captain Smith, remember poor Miss Bailey!"

Oh, Miss Bailey
Unfortunate, Miss Bailey

All's well that ends well, I suppose

For a gentleman to partake occasionally of ratafia
Which was a light-flavored liquer of amazing potency