Version usually used in Morris

Oh, my Billy, my constant Billy, When shall I see my Billy again? When the fish fly over the mountains, That's when I'll see my Billy again! Billy again, Billy again, Billy again, Billy again, When the fish fly over the mountains, That's when I'll see my Billy again!

Version found in 1700s songbook and used in some versions of Beggar's Opera

When the hills and lofty mountains And the vales were hid in snow, By a murm'ring crystal fountain Where the lonely water flow, There fair Flora sat complaining At the absence of her swain, Crying, “Billy, constant Billy, Must we never meet again?”

She who sang so sweet and charming Made the lofty skys rebound. Gods in pity hear her ditty And like mortals her surround. Cupid and the queen of beauty Promised to bring back the swain, Saying, “Flora, lovely creature, Billy shall come home again.

“When the winter storms are over He shall then return to you; On the banks of pinks and lilies You your pleasures shall renew. To the tabor lambs shall caper, Larks and linnets they shall sing; Welcome Billy, charming Billy, Welcome dearest home again.”