Collected by Max Hunter (H-12)
For Mary C. Parler
Transcribed by Frances Majors
Sung by Mrs. Olive Coberley
Weaubleau, Missouri
October 7, 1953
Reel 257-58, Item 10
Six Feet of Earth
I will sing you a song of the world and its ways
And the many strange people we meet,
From the rich man who rolls in his millions of wealth
To the poor struggling wretch in the street.
Though a man may be poor and in tatters and rags,
We know that we ought not dispise,
But think of the adage, remember, my friend,
That six feet of earth makes them all of one size.
There is many a coat that is tattered and torn,
But beneath lies a true honest heart;
But because he's not dressed like his neighbor, in silk,
Why, society keeps them apart.
On one fortune smiles, on the other, frowns,
No matter what venture he tries;
Till death in the end brings them both to the grave,
And six feet of earth makes them both of one size.
So if ever you meet a poor fellow, who tries
To battle the world and its frown,
Just lend him a hand and perchance he'll succeed;
Don't push him and still keep him down.
For a cup of cold water in charity given
Is remembered with joy in the skies;
Then think of the adage, remember, my friend,
That six feet of earth makes us all of one size.
