A traditional folk song, once known throughout England, Ireland and Scotland, with a history spanning hundreds of years. The song deals with a young man (usually named Willy) and his lover (Polly) lamenting over the his conscription to fight in Germany, High Germany referring to the southern, mountainous part of the country. He attempts to convince her to dress like a man and join him in the war. Polly professes her love, but declares she is not fit for war. Willy attempts to persuade her to change her mind, stating that he will buy her a horse to ride, and that they will eventually wed. Polly still refuses and laments that her man has been drafted away from her. The historical setting of the ballad is most likely either the War of the Spanish Succession (1701-1714), or the Seven Years War (1756-1763)

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