I peeped in to say good night
And I heard my child in prayer
"Please bring me some scarlet ribbons
Scarlet ribbons for my hair"

Searched all night, my heart was aching
Just before the dawn was breaking

I peeped in, and on her bed
In gay profusion lying there
Scarlet ribbons, lovely ribbons
Scarlet ribbons for her hair

If I live to be a hundred
I will never know from where
Came those ribbons, lovely ribbons
Scarlet ribbons for her hair