Cat. #1327 (MFH #319) - As sung by David House, Huntsville, Arkansas on July 11, 1969
VERSE 1
Three years ago when Jack an' Joe
Set sail across th foam
Each vowed a fortune, he would make
Before returning home
In just one year Jack gained his wealth
An' sailed for home that day
An' as th pals shook hands t' part
Poor Joe could only say
CHORUS:
Give my love to Nellie, Jack
An' kiss her once for me
Th fairest girl in all this world
I know you'll say t'is she
Treat her kindly, Jack ole pal
Tell her I am well
His parting words were, don't forget
To give my love to Nell
VERSE 3
Years passed an' Joe at last
Gained wealth enough for life
Across't th foam, he sailed for home
To make sweet Nell his wife
But soon he learned that Joe an' Nell
One year ago had wed
He now regrets th sobs n' frets
That he'd ever said
VERSE 3
They chanced to meet, upon th street
Said Joe, you selfish elf
Th next girl that I learn to love
I'll kiss her for myself
But all is fair in love an' war
And as you've gone an' wed
I'll not be angry at you pal
So once again he said