Kingston Trio Desert Pete Lyrics

Desert Pete Lyrics

Billy Edd Wheeler



I was travelin' West of Buckskin on my way to a cattle run, 'cross a little
cactus desert under a hard bargaining sun. Thirsty down to my toenails, I
stopped to rest me on a stump, but I tell you I just couldn't believe it when I
saw that water pump. I took it to be a mirage at first. It'll fool a thirsty
man. Then I saw a note stuck in a bakin' powder can. "This pump is
old," the note began, "but she works. So give'er a try. I put a new
sucker washer in 'er. You may find the leather dry.



Chorus:

You've got to prime the pump. You must have faith and believe. You've got to
give of yourself 'fore you're worthy to receive.

Drink all the water you can hold. Wash your face cool your feet. Leave the
bottle full for others. Thank you kindly, Desert Pete.



Yeah, you'll have to prime the pump, work that handle like there's a fire.
Under the rock you'll find some water left there in a bitter's jar. Now there's
just enough to prime it with, so don't you go drinkin' first. Just pour it in
and pump like mad and, buddy, you'll quench your thirst.



(Chorus)



Well, I found the jar, and I tell you, nothin' was ever prettier to my eye and
I was tempted strong to drink it because that pump looked mighty dry, but the
note went on, "Have faith, my friend, there's water down below. You've got
to give to really get. I'm the one who ought to know."



So I poured in the jar and started pumpin' and I heard a beautiful sound of
water bubblin' 'n' splashin' up out of that hole in the ground. Then I took off
my shoes and drunk my fill of that cold refreshin' treat. Then I thanked the
Lord, and I thanked the pump, and I thanked old Desert Pete.



(Chorus)