At the fall of Plymouth today, Surrounded, surrendered, and taken away

Loaded on cattle cars and roll down south, penned-like sheep at the Sweet Water's mouth

Walk through the gates, a three-by-three, Sergeant Cummins, Carson and me

A muddy cage, no shelter or shade, But Johnny Reb pointed and we obeyed

I'd say, someday soon we'll leave this place, Honest Abe he promised, promised us a quick exchange last a few more days. Back to Canandaigua and all those that love us, Come on boys, keep your spirits up, and last a few more days

Captain Wirtz had a runaway, Turner's hounds caught the man the very next day

Put him in the stocks just to let us see, Next time, yank, it'll be in a tree

Punishment for us, they caught our corn, Lice so thick, they keep you warm

Hold your coat tight at night, If Mosby's raiders come looking for a fight