English Folk Songs from the Southern Appalachians

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	The Cherry-Tree Carol
	B


	Mary and Joseph Were a-walking one day. Here is apples and cherries A-plenty to behold. Mary spoke to Joseph So meek and so mild : Joseph, gather me some cherries, For I am with child. Joseph flew in angry, In angry he flew, Saying : Let the father of your baby Gather cherries for you. The Lord spoke down from Heaven, These words he did say: Bow you low down, you cherry tree, While Mary gathers some.	6 The cherry tree bowed down, It was low on the ground ; And Mary gathered cherries While Joseph stood around. 7 Then Joseph took Mary All on his right knee : Pray tell me, little baby, When your birthday shall be. 8 On the fifth day of January My birthday shall be, When the stars and the elements Shall tremble with fear. 9 Then Joseph took Mary All on his left knee, Saying : Lord have mercy upon me For what I have done.
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