In Rockley Firs where I was sought
I thought that night I should have been caught
The moon shone bright, and the stars gave light
And from them all I ran away

I went to the tavern on Saturday night
And called for a bottle, likewise a pipe
And a special warrant it was brought in
And taken I was in Cole's kitchen

I slept at Cole's all that long night
Mark Hanks came in before it was light
And he said, “Young man, you must away
To Marlborough gaol, this very day”

I mounted a gig in Marlborough town
And off to Salisbury I was bound
In irons so strong they bound my hands
And I was forced to go at their command

My trial is over, I am got free
I am not transported as you all may see
'Twas in a dark cell where I did lie
Where locks and bolts like bullets did fly

Now Salisbury assizes was over and past
All call for a brandy all in a strong glass
But the hares and the pheasant shall never go free
For poaching is the life for me