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Ballads and Songs |
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I46
FIRST SHE GAVE ME WAS A OLD SHOT GUN
Alfred Williams, Folk Songs of the Upper Thames, p. 284, prints a version of this song with the title, "Here's Luck to All My Cocks and Hens." In his head-note, he makes the following interesting comment: "There were half a dozen songs or more of this kind prevalent about the Thames Vale formerly. They were very popular, especially at the inns, and all the company joined in the repetition, which served as chorus; the effect may very well be imagined."
Obtained from Mrs. Rachel Brackett, granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Harmon, Varnell, Georgia, 1931.
1. First she gave was a old shot gun
With the plane of the trigger under my thumb. First give fire; then, give smoke; It give my shoulder a devil of jolt.
Chorus Was she toting turn yea, tum-a-whacky diddleday, Tang fol tooting, was she toting turn yea ?
2. The next thing she gave me — what do you reckon was that ? It a mushiroon feather, a-wavmg in my hat.
The next thing she gave me was a darn old coat With a stiff stand up collar, button up to my throat.
Chorus
5. Next thing she gave me was a old blind horse, Bridle and saddle and two tags across. I meet the sergeant in the road; I ask him for my list; With a great grand grin, he give me a knock with his fist. Chorus
4. Knocked me back nine years — thank the Lord it was not ten; Now I am back home digging potatoes agin. Said I to myself, what a pity to see Such pretty young lady digging turf from Dee. Chorus |
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