The Gold Hunter's Farewell to his Wife
By ONE OF 'EM.
Tune—"Don't Care."
Farewell, dear wife, keep up good cheer,
There's glittering scenes before me
You soon with me the wealth shall share
That lays in California.
I'll hunt the mountains, search the sand,
Through weather clear and stormy,
With shovel, spade, and sieve in hand,
Dig Gold in California.
The Sacramento's banks are lined,
"They" credibly inform me,
With metals of the richest kind—
I must see California.
What makes you think I won't return,
With lots of Gold to adorn you?
Dry up your tears and do not mourn,
There's wealth in California.
'Tis true, like others, I may die,
Or you may not live to see me;
But Gold is sparking in my eye,
I am bound for California.
In two years I'll return again—
Then you may look out for me;
Do hush (don't grieve) I'm not to blame,
For going to California.
So you must do the best you can!
Fix my old pants for Johnny;
The children, too, will help you plan,
While I am in California.
My oxen's all in first rate plight—
Don't be uneasy 'bout me—
O! there's the waggon hove in sight!
Huzza!! for California.
Come let me once more see you smile;
No, I can't wait till morning—
My fever's rising all the while,
To get to California.
Now I must start, the team is here,
The boys are waiting for me;
So here's my hand, good-by my dear!
Ge-ho-haw for California.
Ho, husband! stop! before you go,
And let me just inform you,
I'll find one that won't serve me so;
Well—go to California!
Wo-o-ho, back, wo, (Jake take the team,)
Why bless you! dear wife Mary,
Those horned fixens you have seen,
I bought to break the Prairie.
