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The Dying Californian 398b

Tune: Ball and Drinkard, 1859
Alto: Wilson Marion Cooper, 1902
Lyrics: Kate Harris, 1850
Meter: 8s,7s (8,7,8,7)
Lay up nearer, brother, nearer,
For my limbs are growing cold,
And thy presence seemeth nearer
When thine arms around me fold.

I am dying, brother, dying,
Soon you’ll miss me in your berth,
For my form will soon be lying
‘Neath the ocean’s briny surf.

I am going, surely going,
But my hope in God is strong;
I am willing, brother, knowing
That He doeth nothing wrong.