American Old Time Song Lyrics: 26 John Sullivan, My Jo

Theater, Music-Hall, Nostalgic, Irish & Historic Old Songs, Volume 26

JOHN SULLIVAN, MY JO!
As recited by Willie Wildwave.

John Sullivan, my Jo, John, you've earned a great renown,
First slugger of the universe an' pride of Boston town;
But now you've got ambition, John, to Congress halls to go,
You'll find they light less fairly there, John Sullivan, my Jo!

John Sullivan, my Jo, John, you've had full many a "mill,"
You vanquished every foe, John, remaining champion still;
But yours were blows dealt fairly, John, while in Congress soon you'll know
They gouge and strike below the belt, John Sullivan, my Jo!

John Sullivan, my Jo, John, it e'er has been your plan
To take your medicine straight, John, nor kick a fallen man;
But you'll find a different rule, John, in Congress, if you go,
They will, I fear, corrupt you there, John Sullivan, my Jo!

John Sullivan, my Jo, John, oh, do not go down there,
'Tis trick and bluff that win. John, and not the game that's square;
Your simple heart would fire up, John, to watch their faking show,
An' eke some day you'd clear the house, John Sullivan, my Jo!

John Sullivan, my Jo, John, I know just how you feel,
And bow you'd swing those iron arms and hands like slings of steel;
Those taking chaps would rile you, John, so, sonny, do not go,
The prize ring's the more honest "ring," John Sullivan, my Jo!