74 " ISLES OF SITMMEK. 



while they sang to the rhythm of the dance, '' it will be joy- 

 ful," &c. When the miniature boy and girl near the close sepa- 

 rated a little, alternately approached each other and withdrew, 

 ogling, twisting, bowing and coquetting, while they continued 

 to sing with many repetitions — " Meet to part no more; meet 

 to part no more," the gravity of the audience was sure to give 

 way in laughter and applause. 



The songs sung on these occasions probably have never been 

 printed or reduced to vva-iting. Having taken some of them 

 down, we subjoin them for the benefit of those of our readers 

 who may have a curiosity to know something in regard to their 

 character, although the words alone give only a faint representa- 

 tion of their merits when wedded by these uncultured people to 

 music, and sung v.'ith a fervid enthusiasm, born of a native love 

 of melody and of genuine devotional feelings. A prominent 

 member of the choir is Charley, the basket boy merchant — a 

 smart, bright, wide-awake little fellow, who ever has a sharp eye 

 to business. 



A marked feature in the following was the rendering of the 

 " Oh's," the notes ascending and descending the scale in a very 

 lively manner, and the musical expression and richness of tone 

 added greatly to the effect. 



1. 



I'd rather pray my life away, 



Oh! oh! oh! oh! 

 Than go to hell and burn away. 



Choeus. 

 Save me Lord from sinking down, 



Oh I oh! oh! oh! 

 Save me Lord from sinking down. 



