A long time ago I left my home
For a job in the fruit trees
I missed those hills with the windy pines
For their song seemed to suit me

I sent my wages to my home
Said we'd soon be together
For the next good crop would pay my way
I'll be coming home forever

   One more dime to show for my day
   One more dollar and I'm on my way
   When I reach those hills boys I'll never roam
   One more dollar and I'm going home

No work said the boss at the bunk house door
There's a freeze on the branches
When the dice came out at the bar downtown
I rolled and I took my chances

A long time ago I left my home
Just a boy passing twenty
Could you spare a coin and a Christian prayer
For my luck has turned against me