Little Darlin' Pal of Mine was recorded by the Caters in 1928 in their 2nd session for Peer and Victor. The melody is the spiritual "When The World's On Fire." It's also titled "Little Sweetheart Pal Of Mine" or "My Little Girl."

Apparently this is the song Woody Guthrie used for the melody of "This Land Is Your Land." Jimmie Rodgers covered the song when he visited with the Carter Family and they recorded together in 1931.

According to Maybelle, A.P. wrote the song. Clearly it's based on traditional lyrics and A.P. probably came up with the "little darlin' pal of mine" line, which essential makes the song his.

LITTLE DARLING PAL OF MINE- Carter Family 1928

                   My little darling, oh, how I love you
                   How I love you none can tell
                   In your heart you love another
                   Little darling pal of mine
                     [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]

               Many a night while you lay sleeping
               Dreaming of your rambler's life
               Lay a poor boy brokenhearted
               Listening to the wind outside

                   My little darling, oh, how I love you
                   How I love you none can tell
                   In your heart you love another
                   Little darling pal of mine
                     [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]

               Many a day with you I've rambled
               Countless hours with you I've spent
               Thought I had your heart forever
               But I found it only lent

                   My little darling, oh, how I love you
                   How I love you none can tell
                   In your heart you love another
                   Little darling pal of mine
                     [INSTRUMENTAL BREAK]

               There is just three things I wish for
               That's a casket, shroud, and grave
               When I'm dead, don't weep for me
               Just kiss those lips that you betrayed

                   My little darling, oh, how I love you
                   How I love you none can tell
                   In your heart you love another
                   Little darling pal of mine