When the Sheep are in the Fold, Jennie
Dear
From the singing of Carrie Milliner and the Bobbin
Family.
When the Sheep are in the Fold, Jenny Dear
(Helf/Dennison - Early 20th Century?)
Arranged by Chloe and Jason Roweth.
A lovely old song also collected from Carrie's sister Nance Burton. Composed by Fred Helf and lyricist C. M. Dennison (New York), it had become simpler and sweeter by the time Carrie learnt it from her mum.
It was twilight in the dear old southern valley,
The sun was slowly sinking in the west.
Down a winding track towards home, a shepherd's going,
His sheep are in the fold and safe at rest.
By the old gate in the lane-way stands a lassie,
And like the sun her sweet smile seems to disappear.
As he says, "Farewell one day I'll be returning,
When the sheep are in the fold, Jennie dear."
Chorus:
When the sheep are in the fold, Jennie dear,
And the harvest moon is shining soft and clear,
Let loves star burn bright and true,
I will ever think of you,
When the sheep are in the fold, Jennie dear.
But once more I roam a-down this same old valley,
My heart is sad because you are not here.
In the old churchyard tonight I'll find you sleeping.
Like the sheep, you're in the fold, Jennie dear.