[WARNING: This song contains antiquated racial stereotypes. It is presented here for historical and educational purposes only.]
A popular song from 1906.
Words by Elmer Bowman.
Music by Louis Chauvin.
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
1. Amos Jackson said to his lady love
“Let’s get married right away”
He didn’t get the mitten
But he got a boxin’ glove
When she answered
“Yes, just one year from next May”
The way that lady said it
Struck poor Amos dumb
His face was twisted till it was a sight
So then he started countin’
On his fingers and his thumbs
Poor Amos couldn’t make it come out right
Chorus
Thirty days has September
April, June and November
That’s a little too long for me to remember
I’m mighty feared I just can’t wait
Now can’t you set an earlier date?
Though I am silly honey, I ain’t sof’
Babe it’s too long off
2. Amos ‘course was in a very ugly mood
The comin’ trouble couldn’t fail
He started down the line
To do his colored brotherhood
Before the break of day he was in jail
The way that old Judge soaked him
Struck poor Amos dumb
Says “Ninety days for you an’ that’s too light
Poor Amos started countin’
On his fingers and his thumbs
But he couldn’t make it come out right
Chorus
Thirty days has September
April, June and November
That’s a little too long for me to remember
Please can’t you set a closer date
I’m mighty feared I just can’t wait
I may act foolish now but I ain’t sof’
Judge, it’s too long off