Why won't you stay at home with me?
How the devil should I know, mother?
I've never wanted to go to sea,
And yet, and yet, somehow or other ...

Why won't you stay at home with me?
How the devil should I know, lass?
I've never wanted to go to sea,
Yet, somehow, when I've had a glass ...

Why won't you stay at home with me?
How the devil should I know, wife?
I've never wanted to go to sea,
Yet, somehow, I've signed on for life.