I'll catch the tramline in the morning

With your leave Van Bushell said

He had further heard the cock crow

As he stumbled out the shed



Then blind Joseph came towards him

With a shotgun in his arms

He said you'll pay me twenty dollars

Before you leave my farm



Van Bushell saw the hook

Which replaced Joseph's hand

He said now calm you down my brother

Let's discuss this man to man



It's no good you getting angry

We must try to act our age

You're pursuing your convictions

Like some hermit in a cage



You're the son of your father

Try a little bit harder

Do for me as he would do for you

With blood and water bricks and mortar

He built for you a home

You're the son of your father

So treat me as your own



Well slowly Joseph well he lowered the rifle

And he emptied out the shells

Van Bushell he came towards him

He shook his arm and wished him well



He said now hey blind man that is fine

But I sure can't waste my time

So move aside and let me go my way

I've got a train to ride



Well Joseph turned around

His grin was now a frown

He said let me just refresh your mind

Your manners boy seem hard to find



Well there's two men lying dead as nails

On an East Virginia farm

For charity's an argument

That only leads to harm



So be careful when they're kind to you

Don't you end up in the dirt

Just remember what I'm saying to you

And you likely won't get hurt