In a neat little town they call Belfast, Apprentice to trade I was bound
And many an hour of happiness have I spent in that neat little town
Till a sad misfortune came o'er me, and cause me to stray from the land
From away from my friends and companions and the girl with the black velvet band

Chorus:
Her eyes they shone lights diamonds, Her neck it was just like a swan
And her hair hung over her shoulders, Tied up with a black velvet band

As I was out strolling one evening, not meaning to go very far
A met with a ficklesome damsel selling her trade at the bar
When a watch she took from a customer and placed it right into my hand
And the law came put me in prison, Bad Cess to the black velvet band

Chorus

Next morning before judge and jury for trial I had to attend
The judge he said me young fellow, "Your case I will now apprehend."
"Seven long years penal servitude, to be spent far away from the land."
"Far away from your friends and companions and the girl with the black velvet band

Chorus

No come all me jolly young fellows, I'll have you take warning by me
Beware of the pretty young maidens who lurking around in Tralee
They will fill you brandies and porters, until you're unable to stand
And the very next thing that you know my lads, you've landed in Van Dieman's Land

Chorus