rosewood casket

there's a little rosewood casket

that is resting on the stand

there's a package of old letters

written by my loved one's hand

go and bring them to me

brother

come and sit upon my bed

lay your head upon my pillow

while each cherished line is read

read them gently to me

brother

read them 'til i fall asleep

for the sleep to wake in heaven

oh dear brother do not weep

last night i saw him walking

with a lady by his side

and i thought i heard him tell her

she could never be his bride

when at last i'm gone forever

and my friends are gathered round

and my narrow grave is ready

in some lonesome church yard ground

there's a little rosewood casket

that is resting on the stand

there's a package of old letters

written by my loved one's hand