ALL THE BABY CHICKENS IN THE GARDEN
(learned from my brother Herm Fitz who learned it from Barry Olivier)
I once did know a farmer, a jolly good old soul,
I know I love this daughter, she says that she loves me,
Now the old man has consented and married we will be,
(from miriam berg's folksong collection)
I used to do a little work around his county home.
He had an only daughter, to win her I did try;
And when I asked the old man for her, this was his reply.
Oh, treat my daughter kindly, and say you'll do no harm,
And when I die I'll will to you my little house and farm,
My horse, my plough, my sheep, my cows, my hogs and little barn,
And all the baby chickens in the gar - - den.
We'll own this little place ourselves, we'll live so happily.
I'll always help her do her work, I'll view her every charm,
And many's the drink of milk I'll have before I leave the farm.
Oh, treat my daughter kindly, (etc.>
We'll own this little farm ourselves, and live contentedly.
I'll always help her do her work and treat her so kindly,
And ne'er forget the promise that the old man took of me.
Oh, treat my daughter kindly, (etc.>