The Lightning Express
(as sung by Garland Foster [1877-1960] to his grandson [me])

The Lightning Express from the Depot so grand was just pulling out on its way;
All of the people that were on board seemed to be happy and gay;
Except for a lad in a seat by himself, holding a letter he had--
'Twas plain to be seen by the tears in his eyes that the contents of it made him sad.
The stern old conductor came through the car, taking tickets from everyone there;
When he came to the young boy's side, he gruffly demanded his fare.
'I have no ticket,' the boy replied, ' but I'll pay you back someday.'
'I'll have to put you off at the next station,' he said,' but he stopped when he heard the boy say:

CHORUS (see below)

'My mother was ailing before I left home, and needed a doctor's care;
I came to the city, employment to seek, but I could not find any work there.
Today a letter from Sister arrived, 'come home mother's dying' did say.
That's why I must make this ride, sir, though I haven't the money to pay.'
A little girl in a seat close by said, 'To put that boy off is a shame!'
And taking his hat a collection she made that soon paid his way on the train.
'I'm obliged to you miss, for your kindness to me..' 'You're welcome,' she said, 'Never fear."
Each time the conductor came through the car, these words seemed to ring in his ear:

CHORUS: Please, mister conductor, don't put me off of your train--
The best friend I have in the whole wide world is waiting for me in pain.
Expected to die any moment, and may not live through the day--
I want to bid mother good-bye, sir, before God takes her away.