This has been a popular song for over 200 years, especially in southern England, and is still in traditional circulation.  Part of its appeal is undoubtedly the catchy tune but also singers are attracted by the ‘sting’ in the lyrics, where it transpires that the girl is only interested in the scruffy sailor when she learns he is rich.  This is a theme which turns up in other songs such as The Keys of Canterbury.

Notes by Gwilym Davies 21 March 2018