Lyr. Add: JEFF DAVIS AND HIS UNCLE
Air: Root Hog or Die.

I'll tell you of a story that happened in its day.
Davis tried to whip his uncle but found it wouldn't pay.
He tried to whip his Uncle and I'll tell you the reason why
He hadn't the courage for to Root Hog or Die.

Chorus-
Floyd head devil, Davis rebel master
I'm standing on my head and enjoying your disaster,
The troops are in the valley and you thought to make us fly,
But now we're here before you singing Root Hog or Die.

The first time we met the rebels 'twas on a gay rough road
They tried to turn us back again, but couldn't make it good
They tried to turn us back again, and I'll tell you the reason why,
'Twas a hazardous experiment to Root Hog or Die.

The next time we met the rebels they tried it on again,
They commenced their shooting and got little for their pains;
They commenced their shooting, and I'll tell you the reason why
They tried to turn us home again, for to Root Hog or Die.

Now all you foolish rebels take the President's advice,
Vamoose from these diggings and save your necks at any price,
Vamoose from these diggings and I'll tell you the reason why,
For ropes and trees are plenty for to Root Hog or Die.

By Isadore Leopold. Song sheet No. 797, by J. Wrigley, New York, n. d.