Pretty Polly- Mrs. York (NC) 1940 Abrams REC
[From: W. Amos Abrams Folksong Collection-- “Pretty Polly, performed by Mrs. James York,” Appalachian State University Digital Collections. This is an unique and beautiful version in a minor key.
To listen: http://omeka.library.appstate.edu/files/original/38ef8d25d4b1da33c347916da1dc6cd1.mp3
R. Matteson 2016]
Pretty Polly- Sung by Mrs. James York on Dec. 7, 1940 at the Bland Hotel in Raleigh, NC. Transcribed R. Matteson with additional corrections Jim Brown, 2016.
Come along Pretty Polly and go with me
Before we get married a friend to see.
He led her o'er hills and valleys so deep,
At last this poor damsel began to weep.
Oh William, I'm fearful you are leading me astray,
One purpose my innocent life to betray.
Come on Pretty Polly you guessed it just right,
I was digging your grave the one part of last night.
Her lily-white hands in horror she rose
A-crying for mercy: What have I done?
They went a bit further and what did they spy
But a grave ready dug and a spade by the side
She threw her arms 'round him and suffered no fear,
How can you kill a girl who loves you so dear?
Come on Pretty Polly, no time to stand,
He instantly drew a large knife in his hand.
He stabbed her through the heart and the blood it did flow,
And into the grave that poor body did go.
He threw some dust o'er and turned to go home
Left nothing but the birds to make a sad moan.
Oh where is Pretty Polly, oh where is she?
Oh, now I am bound for one part of the sea.