The Unquiet Grave (Child 78) - Hedy West

Cold Blows the Wind / The Unquiet Grave (Child No. 78) - Sung by Hedy West on "Ballads" (1966). Note by Kevin W.: A cover of the version collected from Myra Barnett (Mrs. J. J. Miller) of King's Creek in the Brushies, Caldwell County, North Carolina, c.1913. American texts are very rare, though the ballad had some currency in Newfoundland. Song transcription: 'The wind blows cold, my own true love. And a few cold drops of rain. I never had but one true love; In the cold grave she was lain. 'I'll do as much for my true love As any young man may; I'll sit and mourn by her grave side For [a] twelve-month and a day.' The twelve-month and a day has passed, The dead begins to speak. 'Who is it sits at my grave side And will not let me sleep?' 'Tis I, my love, sits by your grave And will not let you sleep. I crave one kiss from your clay-cold lips And that is all I seek.' 'You crave one kiss from my clay-cold lips, But the call of death is strong; If you get one kiss from my cold lips Your time will not be long. 'Tis down in yonder garden path, Love, where we used to walk, The finest flower that's ever seen Is withered on the stalk. 'The stalk is withered dry, my love; So will our hearts decay. So make yourself content, my love, Till God calls you away.'

Added 27 Sept 2026