I have two albums of old vinyl 78rpm records. One has Sarie Marais in English. My mother had typed out the words long ago and they were in the album. I understand there are two versions of words. I like this one:
SARIE MARAIS
My Sarie Marais is so far from my heart And I'm longing to see her again. She lives on a farm, on the Mooi River's bank, Before I left on this campaign.
Chorus:
O bring me back to the old Transvaal That's where I long to be 'Way yonder mongst the mielies by the green thorny tree Sarie is waiting for me. I wonder if I'll ever see that green thorny tree There where she's waiting for me.
Verse 2: I feared that the soldiers would get hold of me They would send me away o'er the sea. I fled over land to the Orange River sand. In Upington I would be free.
Verse 3: At last there was peace and I started for home, To the Transvaal I'll always adore. My Sarie Marais will be waiting there for me. Her kiss will be my best reward.