A long time ago, I left my home
For a job in the fruit trees
But I miss those hills and the windy pines:
Their song seemed to suit me

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

(Chorus)
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 bunkhouse door
"There's a freeze on the branches."
So when the dice came out at the bar downtown
I rolled and took my chances

(Chorus)
A long time ago, I left my home
Just a girl passing twenty
Could you spare a coin or a christian prayer?
For my luck has turned against me