Title: American Old Time Song Lyrics
Subject: Traditional & Folk Music
Author: www.traditionalmusic.co.uk
Keywords: Old time music, American, oldtimey, bluegrass

Why Can't Paddy Be A Gentleman - song lyrics 
American Old-time song lyrics from www.traditionalmusic.co.uk 
Why Can't Paddy Be a Gentleman? 
Being told Pat couldn't be a gentleman, I've set myself the task, That I to-night the reason why of you my friends would ask; Hasn't Ireland got her colleges, that have for centuries stood. To teach the people-and you know their teaching's mighty good; Haven't Irishmen got heads and hearts- by dad, I know they've so. Then why can't Paddy be a gentleman? That's what I want to know. 
Some look down on an Irishman, as if they thought that we Could not but helpless dolts or fools e'er have a hope to be What matters where a man is born. I see in Erin's isle There's lots of native gentlemen to greet you with a smile; For there's other kind of gentlemen, besides a dandy bean. Then why can't Paddy be a gentleman? That's what I want to know. 
You cannot give the reason why, I see it in your face; That Paddy's not a gentleman, because you know he is. He's always good to help a friend, although his means are scant; And if he's fond of blarney, he hates deceit and cant; His coat may be of common frieze, his heart won't freeze-oh, no! Then why can't Paddy be a gentleman? That's what I want to know. 
If an Englishman's a gentleman, oh, worrah, then it's true; As Pat is John Bull's brother, then he must be one, too. Just read the Irish history, and in that same you'll find Great deeds of Irish gentlemen-St. Patrick's one, d'ye mind; And don't forget this-ye who sneer at honest Paddy's worth-That actions make a gentleman, no matter what the birth.