O bring me a leaf from the Old Forest,
The forest of beauty and song;
Where the Ettrick, through woods and fair meadows,
Doth lead its sweet waters along.
O bring me a leaf from the Old Forest,
A tuft from the glossy black pine;
A leaf from the oak and high chestnut tree
And a branch of green holly combine.
O bring me a leaf from the Old Forest,
A token so sacred, O bring;
'Twill recall those bright scenes to remembrance,
Old friendships around it will cling.