Oh they gave him his orders out of Monroe, Virginia
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Saying "Pete you're way behind time.
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This is not 38 but it's old 97,
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You must put her through and get her on time."
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Now it's a mighty rough road from Memphis to Danville
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and a line on a three mile grade.
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It was on this grade that his air brakes failed
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and you know what a wreck he made.
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Now he was goin' down grade makin' 90 miles an hour
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When his whistle began to scream.
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He was found in the wreck with his hand on the throttle
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And all scalded to death with steam.
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Oh lady, oh lady, you must take warning,
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From this day now and on!
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Never speak harsh words to your true and loving husband,
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He may leave you and never return!
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-----------------
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Wreck of the Old '97
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| Hank Snow |
