Holly Tree

When the robin builds in the holly tree

It's a sign of life, its gentle victory

Well, today as I set to go

I saw a nest in a tree hollow

Oh Emily, you're a brave girl

With your husband gone to the other world

Sing a hymn while I light the fire

We'll be joined by a heavenly choir

Here's the tansy and the chamomile tea for you to drink

As the pain increases, well you only have to think

About a baby. We'll save the baby

I placed a holly sprig by the doctor's door

He has done this well and many times before

He'll be careful which way he goes

But he's been kind to us farm widows

And this I heard just the other day

That they came to buy, and you chose to stay

Soon a child will help you reap and sow

May he cast a long shadow

But you say the trials are coming, you have felt the gathering forces

And the galloping you hear is of one too many horses

But rest your head my darling girl, there won't be any danger

Any Christian ever loved an infant in a manger

Saves the baby. They'll save the baby

Now the pastor comes, shakes the farmer's hand

Says, "The earth will bear like the promised land"

You have heard the stories down below

But God will bless this farm hollow?

Now the farmer's wife shudders, pulls the shawl up to her shoulder

Every time she nears the hearth she feels a little colder

Where's the baby? There was a baby