Cat. #0405 (MFH #10) - As sung by Mrs. Chloe Bain, Elkton, Missouri on September 6, 1959
VERSE 1
She wrote him this letter
That's covered with tears
An' it is her answer
To twenty one years
VERSE 2
Six months have gone by, love
Th good doctor said,
For six weary months, love
I been sick in bed
They tell me, your bitter
Because I don't write
But a brain that is fevered
Is dark as th night
VERSE 3
So, you understand why
I did'nt write you
But th master, in heaven
Knows what I've gone through
VERSE 4
Th judge made you stand up
Said, dry up your tears
Then, he sent you to Nashville
For twenty-one years
While we stood embracing
They tore us apart
But they'll never tear you
From out of my heart
VERSE 5
They shackled your arms, love
They shackled your feet
But they'll never shackle
A love which is sweet
Th angels all know well
You'll always be mine
Tho' I'll still be waiting
Tho' it's a long time
VERSE 6
I went to th governor
I got down on my knees
Said, O Mr. Governor
Won't you hear me, please
I begged for your pardon
Through my blinding tears
But all I remember
Was twenty-one years
VERSE 7
Although your in prison
Behind those iron bars
When I get my strength back
I'll come where you are
I'll stand by those high walls
An' cry through my tears
But I'll wait for you love, dear
For twenty-one years