send home the slates

i work for the union pike

out on the western line. i found uncle sean in denver

and he and his wife are fine. they send their best

and like the rest

they send home the slates. it took six months from the cobh

another six by land

but the pay is good

and as i should

i'll send home the slates. back on your feet

now lads

our time for writing home has passed. six miles to spike today

that's what we need. so fast lads

we must advance

work to the gandy dance. six days to double pay

that's our reward

but not 'til the line goes down. i'll not send empty letters

i know you need the rent. dad

you deserve a new pair of boots

i know it's money well spent. so kind regards

i'll work hard

to send home the slates. ps. dear ma

i send my picture. don't let the family forget me.