I'm hearing it just a little differently, and I decided to make up a complete songsheet anyhow.

~S~


LET THE MERMAIDS FLIRT WITH ME
Mississippi John Hurt

Blues all on the ocean, blues all in the air;
Can't stay here no longer, I have no steamship fare.
When my earthly trials are over, cast my body out in the sea;
Save on the undertaker bill-- let the mermaids flirt with me!

I do not work for pleasure; earthly peace I'll see no more;
The only reason I work at all is to drive the wolf from my door.
When my earthly trials are over, cast my body out in the sea;
Save on the undertaker bill-- let the mermaids flirt with me!

My wife controls our happy home; my sweetheart I cannot find.
The only thing I can call my own is a troubled and a worried mind.
When my earthly trials are over, cast my body out in the sea;
Save on the undertaker bill-- let the mermaids flirt with me!

Blues all in my body; my darlin' has forsaken me.
If I ever see her face again, have to travel 'cross the sea.
When my earthly trials are over, cast my body out in the sea;
Save on the undertaker bill-- let the mermaids flirt with me!

Blues all on the ocean, blues all in the air;
Can't stay here no longer, I have no steamship fare.
When my earthly trials are over, cast my body out in the sea;
Save on the undertaker bill-- let the mermaids flirt with me!

^^