A knight he rode his lonely way Thinking about his wedding day As he rode through a forest near The elf king's daughter did appear Out she stepped from the elfin band Smiling she held out her hand Welcome Sir Knight, why such speed? Come with me the dance to lead Chorus Dance, dance, follow me Round and round the greenwood tree Dance, dance, while you may Tomorrow is your dying day Dance with me, dance with me Listen Sir Knight come dance with me, Spurs of gold I'll give to thee Dance neither I will give nor may Tomorrow is my wedding day Please Sir Knight come dance with me A shirt of silk I'll give to thee A shirt of silk so white and fine My mother has bleached in the moon-beams shine Chorus Please Sir Knight come dance with me A crown of gold I'll give to thee Your crown of gold I'll freely take But I'll not join your elfin wake Do you refuse to dance with me A plague of death shall follow thee Between his shoulders a blow she dealt Such a blow he'd never felt Chorus