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358 Indiana University Publications, Folklore Series
97 THE WHITE PILGRIM
For other versions of this song, see Hudson, Folksongs, p. 209, and Jackson, Spiritual Folk-Songs of Early America, No. 18. Part II of the Indiana text does not, so far as I know, appear in any other version.
The legend which Professor Hudson quotes (page 209, headnote) I have heard also in this state. However, no locale was given.
Communicated in manuscript by Mr. 0. F. Kirk, of Oakland City, Indiana, who tells me that it was considered an old song when he was a boy (he is now more than seventy-five), and that he has never seen it in print.
Part I
1. I came to the spot where the White Pilgrim lay, and pensively stood by his Tomb,
When in a loe whisper a voice seemed to say: "how sweetly I sleep here alone.
2. "The Tempest may howl, and loud thunders role
and gathering storms may arise,
Yet calm are my feelings, at rest is my soul
The tears are all wiped from my eyes.
3. "The cause of my Master compelled me from home
I bid my companion farewell,
I left my dear children, who for me does mourn,
In far distant regions to dwell.
4. "I wanderd an exile and Pilgrim below
To publish salvation abroad,
The Trump of the Gospel endeavor to blow
Inviting poor sinners to God.
5. "But when amoung strangers, and far from my home,
No Kindred or relation nigh,
I met the contagion and sank in the Tomb,
My spirit to mansions on high. |
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