My lovely train, Clarinda,
Don’t chug-chug-chug so fast!
Let diesel trains zoom by you,
A-whistling as they pass.

Your engine is too hot, dear,
So you must slow you down;
Let diesel trains zoom by you
As you ease into town.

What destination waits you
Will still be there, you’ll see;
No need to hurry-hurry,
As if you’re greeting me!

One day I will be standing
And watching for your steam;
‘Twill rise up oh, so gently—
Your beauty, and my dream.

I’ll listen for your chugging,
And hope it’s easy, true,
For that you’ve taken care, dear,
So careful care of you.

If you’re a minute late, love,
It will not matter much,
As long as you’re not hot, love,
When stopped, I come to touch.

I would but burn my fingers;
My lips, would they burn, too,
And I’d be over-roasted
On greeting, meeting you.

So cool yourself, Clarinda,
Don’t chug-chug-chug so fast!
Let diesel trains zoom by you
A-whistling as they pass.