Send Home the Slates

Latimer/Hoover

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...