In Strassburg on the rampart

In Strassburg on the rampart,

there began my troubles:

I heard the the alp-horn calling from afar,

and decided to swim to my fatherland.

That was unacceptable.

One hour in the night

they captured me;

they led me straight to Captain's house,

ah God, they'd fished me right out of the river,

and everything's over for me.

The next morning at ten

they'll place me before the regiment;

I am supposed to beg for my pardon,

and I will receive what's coming to me,

that I know well.

You, my brothers all,

today you'll see me for the last time;

the shepherd boy is alone to blame.

The alp-horn did this to me -

thus I accuse it.

You, my brothers, all three,

This I beg you now: shoot straight at me;

Do not spare my young life,

but shoot me so the blood splashes out:

this I beg you.

O king of heaven, Lord!

Take my poor soul away,

take it to you in Heaven,

let it be with you forever

and do not forget me!