"Nicodemus Johnson" (1865)
by J. B. Murphy

Boston: Oliver Ditson & Co.
[Source: pages 116-117 of
"Minstrel Songs, Old and New" (1883)]

1.
I've just arrived in town today,
And here I is before you,
To sing about my name and occupation;
I came from old Virginny State,
De best in all de nation,

[REFRAIN]
O, ho! O, ho! to Nicodemus Johnson.

2.
My master was a union man,
He did not like secession,
And so he had to leave de old plantation;
I thought to stay behind him there,
'Twould be an aggravation,

(REFRAIN)

3.
I wish dis war would only end,
And peace come frew de nation,
I'd go right back to Dixie's land and stay dar;
For I isn't any contraband,
I love de old plantation,

(REFRAIN)