Mary Kate

My mother and my father dear

Thank God you never saw us here

But we're still alive, and some salvation might be yet at hand

They're sending workhouse orphan girls

Across the world, to New South Wales

They've picked me out, but won't allow my little sister come

So, too-ri-ah, my Mary Kate

Too-ri-ah, my Mary Kate

I might see Australia

But we will meet again someday

It's only for your age, babín

They'd send you with the big cailíns

I know, I know it's hard, but it's the only chance we have

Let's dry away these bitter tears

I won't just go and leave you here

Stay strong for me, the Miss will mind ya 'til I send the fare

And too-ri-ah, my Mary Kate

Too-ri-ah, my Mary Kate

I might see Australia

But we will reunite someday

Thank you for your reply, Miss Anne

I'm grateful for the kindness that

You've shown to us, God found a true and honest soul in you

You nursed our little Mary Kate

When you had so much on your plate

In every prayer I'll think of you, until the day I die

Aye

And too-ri-ah, my Mary Kate

I'm sorry so, sweet Mary Kate

But you won't see Australia

And we won't meet again someday

And too-ri-ah, my Mary Kate

Forever now, sweet Mary Kate

You won't see Australia

And we won't meet in this life again