The Leaving of Liverpool

Also known as "Fare Thee Well, My Own True Love," "(The) Leaving of Liverpool" is a classic folk song that has been recorded by various groups since the 1950's, though it was first collected some time between 1938 and 1940. The song's narrator sings a lament about sailing to California, away from his lover.

This song was performed by TLJ on their May 27th 2020 stream.

Lyrics
These lyrics are based on the version performed by the Longest Johns in their livestream, although there are other variations.

Farewell to Princes' Langing Stage,

River Mersey, fare thee well.

I am bound for California,

A place that I know quite well

{Chorus}

So fare the well, my own true love,

When I return, united we will be.

It's not the leaving of Liverpool that grieves me

But my darling when I think of thee.

I have sailed with Burgess once before

I think that I know him well.

If a man's a sailor he will get along,

If not then he's sure in hell.

{Chorus}

Farewell to Lower Frederick Street,

Anson Terrace, and Park Lane.

I am bound away for to leave you

And I'll never see you again.

{Chorus}

I am bound for California

By way of stormy Cape Horn,

And I'll write to thee a letter, love,

When I am homeward bound.

{Chorus x2}

It's not the leaving of Liverpool that grieves me,

But my darling when I think of thee.