KING WILLIAM WAS KING JAMES'S SON
Sung by: W.P. Detherow
Recorded in Batesville, AR, 6/25/52

Click here to listen to the original recording
(Mr. Detherow: "This is called 'King William Was King James's Son,' and they circle and choose in and kneel down in this play.")

King William was King James's son;
Upon the narrow race he run;
Upon his breast he wore his star,
A-pointing the way to the ocean war.

Go choose your east; go choose your west;
Go choose the one that you love best.
If he's not here to take your part,
Choose another with all your heart.

Down on this carpet you must kneel,
Sure as the grass grows in the field.
Salute your bride and kiss her sweet,
And then you may rise upon your feet.

(Mr. Detherow: "This is repeated just like the others 'til they get through, all get through.")

Also found in Randolph, Vol. III, #543, "King William Was King James's Son."

All Songs Recorded by John Quincy Wolf, Jr., unless otherwise noted

The John Quincy Wolf Folklore Collection
Lyon College, Batesville, Arkansas
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