Oh sweet mama, lay me down in my grave Leave me baby, I'm too far gone to save The snow is comin', all the village folk knowThis wicked shiver, chills me down to my soul, oh
Only time will tell Take the ox to town and you can sell And leave me in my bed Today
The Yankee peddler bargains with you on his way Woe sweet mama's gotten herself a new dray Keep the children snug as the wagon rolls on When the cold wind blows most of them will be gone, oh
Only time can tell Take the ox to town and I'll get well And leave me in my bed Today
Only time will tell You take the ox to town and you can sell And leave me in my bed Today