American Old Time Song Lyrics: 36 Bad Company
Theater, Music-Hall, Nostalgic, Irish & Historic Old Songs, Volume 36
BAD COMPANY.
Copyright, 1891, by Richard A. Saalfield.
Words and Music by Wm. H. Friday, Jr.
When I was but a little lad, not many years ago,
My father came to me one day, and said look here you Joe;
I saw you with some boys to-day, amongst them one Jack Blair,
I thought I cautioned you before, then dad these words said there:
Refrain.
Dear Joe drop young Blair's friendship now, I fear he'll do you harm;
His manner I don't like somehow, there Joe, my boy, be calm.
You may, my lad, think well of him, but I can plainly see,
That young man is bad company, therefore, Joe, let him be.
My dad's kind words I did not heed, and as the years rolled by,
Bad company began to keep, Jack Blair met on the sly;
Temptation came my way one day, I stole-was sent to Jail,
And as the gates were closed on me these words I heard dad bewail.-Refrain.
The other day my time expired, and homeward I did stray,
Again I saw that dear old spot, my tears I could not stay;
I made inquiry for my folks, both long had passed away,
And as I kneel beside their graves I plainly hear dad say -Refrain.
Young friends, from this a lesson take, and should you any time.
Meet with bad company in life, perhaps be urged to crime;
Don't let temptation conquer you, but firmly hold your ground,
Think of the warning dad gave me, my sorrow at his mound.-Refrain.