"That folk-song is still being made and sung is evidenced by the following comment on current events which was brought back from the West Indies last winter by Professor Samuel E. Morison and is included with his permission. The song was sung by Negro boatmen in Basse Terre, St. Kitts. The air to the chorus was furnished by another member of Professor Morison's party, who says that the verses were sung in a droning monotone."

King Edwards

Love, love alone, cause King Edwards to leave the t'rone.
It's Love, love alone, cause King Edwards to leave the t'rone.

There never was a King so great
But love cause him to abdicate.

On the tenth December we hear the talk
He give the t'rone to the Duke of York.

I have the robe and crown on my mind
But I cannot leave Mistress Simpson behind.

I'm sorry to make my mother grieve
But just the same I'm bound to believe (that)

They may take my crown, they may have my t'rone,
But leave Mistress Simpson and me alone.

Stanley Baldwin try to break the plan
But come what may I'll have the American.

If they won't give me my liberty
I'll walk with Mistress Simpson 'cross the sea.

So let us hear the wedding bell' ring
And say good-bye to our bachelor king.

(3x)
Love, it's love alone
Cause King Edwards to leave the t'rone.


Colcord, Songs of American Sailormen, (New York: W.W. Norton, 1938, p.186-7)