American Old Time Song Lyrics: 60 The Rectors Daughter Nell

Theater, Music-Hall, Nostalgic, Irish & Historic Old Songs, Volume 60

THE RECTOR'S DAUGHTER NELL
Copyright. 1898, by C O. Brokaw.
Words and Music by Gussie L. Davis.

A quiet village where the people lived a peaceful life,
Until a handsome stranger came one day.
To linger for the summer, away from toil and strife
Of a busy city many miles away.
The young folks all admired him, for he had a charming way,.
And of his city life they lov'd to hear him tell:
But the handsome stranger disappeared one idle summer's day.
And with him went the rector's daughter Nell.

Refrain.
Nell was a beautiful girl when she sang in the village choir:
They lov'd her the best in the world and she had all that heart could desire.
Honored, respected by all, of the village girls she was the belle.
No one could say why she ran away, the rector's daughter Nell.

The rector, old and gray, one evening heard the church-bells chime.
And as he was just about to leave the door,
A feeble voice cried, "Father, I have just come home in time,
Forgive a dying daughter, I implore;
Don't ask about the past, 'tis like a dream, for I can't tell.
But I have brought you this, my wedding ring," she said;
He clasped her in his arms once more, the child he lov'd so well.
But alas, too late, for Nellie she was dead. -Ref.