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about

words and music by Beth Gadbaw (adapted from the letters of my great-great uncle Thomas Watson)

lyrics

My dearest sister Sarah I write to let you know
I'm still alive but you must not write anymore to San Francisco
It's a fine place for a lady but a man he cannot stay
I'm gone and won't return again until St. Patrick's Day

I rode ninety-six miles yesterday and today still more again
My fondest horse I call Shamrock I bought from an Indian band
My heart leaped to read your letter I regret we've had to part
For you are the only woman who has ever pierced my heart

Don't send no standing collars you ladies sew in Troy
For standing collars won't become a Montana cowboy
What suits him is a pair of spurs and a whip and saddle bold
A sip and woolen blanket to keep him from the cold

I'm sorry you are lonesome sure I'm lonesome too tonight
Sometimes I wish I'd never left but I think I'll be alright
For God may send his angels of comfort and content
I'm entirely among strangers but I hope to meet a friend

I run through desperate chances I could be killed at anytime
Amongst Indians and wild horses and the ruffians in the mines
But I'm not afraid of dying oh no not anymore
A man does not fear dying when he's nothing to live for

Once I went to bed a rich man then I woke to work my land
Cultivating my potatoes as the frostbite numbed my hands
Then at ten o'clock the sun came out they melted as if cursed
I swore before my eyes I'd be a poor man now and worse

My dearest sister Sarah I'll now put down my pen
Send my regards to loved ones and to all inquiring friends
A young man he's a fool to stay in Troy or in the east
Your love and kindness o'er the miles is all that brings me peace

credits

from The Green Fields and the Mountains High, released February 9, 2016
Beth Gadbaw, vocals; Adam Agee, fiddle; Frederic Pouille, guitar

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Beth Gadbaw Lyons, Colorado

Described by Irish Music Magazine as "exceptional" and by Colorado Public Radio as "stunning", Beth Gadbaw is a Celtic traditional folksinger and bodhran player based in Lyons, Colorado. Along with her solo work, Gadbaw performs with high-energy traditional band Take Down the Door and ethereal Celtic harp and vocal duo Gadbaw & Krimmel. ... more

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