Down the way where the nights are gray

and the sun shines daily on the mountain top,

I took a trip on a sailing ship

and when I reached Jamaica I made a stop.

But I’m sad to say I’m on my way,

won’t be back for many a day.

My heart is down, my head is turning around

I had to leave a little girl in Kingston town.

Sounds of laughter everywhere

and the dancing girls sway to and fro’.

I must declare my heart is there,

though I’ve been from Maine to Mexico.

Down the market you can hear

ladies cry out while on their heads they bear,

“Akey” rice, salt fish are nice,

and the rum is fine any time of year.