A traditional song first recorded in 1927
From the film “Red River Valley,” 1935
Arranged by Nick Manoloff
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
From the valley they tell me you’re leaving
I shall miss your bright eyes and sweet smile.
For you take with you all of the sunshine,
That has lightened my life for a while.
Chorus
Just consider awhile ere you leave me.
Do not hasten to bid me adieu.
And remember the bright Mohawk Valley
And the girl who has loved you so true.
Verse 2
Do you think of the home you are leaving?
Of your parents so kind and so true?
Do you think of the hearts you are breaking,
And the girl who has loved you so true?
Verse 3
I have waited a long time, my darling
For the words that you never would say.
And at last my poor heart now is breaking,
For they tell me you’re going away.
Verse 4
When you’re far from the scenes of the valley,
And they tell me your journey is through,
Will you think of the bright Mohawk Valley
And the girl who has loved you so true?
1945 Version
From this valley they say you are going.
How we’ll miss your sweet face and bright smile.
You will take with you most of the sunshine
That brightens our pathway a while.
Now I’ve promised you, darling, that never
Would a word from my lips cause you pain.
For my life it is yours now forever,
If you would but love me again.
Chorus
Then come sit by my side if you love me.
Do not hasten to bid me adieu.
Just remember the Red River Valley,
And the one who has loved you so true.
Sung by Laurence Rubenstein: