Send Home The Slates

I work for the Union Pike out on the Western Line I found Uncle Sean in Denver and he and his wife are fine They send their best and like the rest they send home the slates It took six months from the C?h another six by land but the pay is good and as I should I'll send home the slates Back on your feet now lads Our time for writing home has passed Six miles to spike today thats's what we need So fast lads we must advance Work to the Gandy dance Six days to double pay that 's our reward But not 'til the line goes down I'll not send empty letters I know you need the rent Dad you deserve a new pair of boots I know it 's money well spent So kind regards I 'll work hard to send home the slates P.S. Dear Ma I ssend my picture Don 't let the family forget me