THE TALE OF A FISH Robert Conning

It was in Stewarton many years ago I recall that bright summers day Just a lad and full of fun I grabbed my fishing rod and reel And headed up the Annick Burns. Fishing my favourite sweelzies pool Just down from the Jubilee Woods I started to jump and about I've caught a fish And pulled a brown trout out. I took the hook out of his mouth And about to kill him for supper But much to my surprise I saw a tiny tear drop fall From that little fish's eye. Forgive me please my little fish I won't hurt you again Putting him back into his pool, I called Take care little fish don't cry, don't cry Until tomorrow little fish goodbye, goodbye. As weeks went by we became great friends Swimming and splashing for hours He looked so sad every time I'd . . . Take care little fish don't cry, don't cry Until tomorrow little fish goodbye, goodbye. I can never forget that terrible day When arriving at the pool's edge I saw a mink running away My poor little friend lay still and bleeding Swim little fish please swim oh God I pray. Like he was waving me farewell He flicked his little tail one last time Blinded with tears I heard a voice say Take care dear friend, don't cry, don't cry Cheerio my good friend goodbye, goodbye.