(Kinky Friedman)

From a cheap hotel in Dallas
On a cold December day
A telegram was traveling on its way
LiKe a sad old song from somewhere
In the distance of a dream
Flashing ‘cross the darkness
On the telegraph machine.

It said, “From Billy,” at the bottom, “To Baby,” at the top
Western Union Wire — “Please help me” — stop.
Western Union Wire — “Don’t leave me.” — stop.

Well, the taxicab it took her
To the airport in the dawn,
She knew in just an hour she’d be gone.
She was standing near the platform
‘Bout to board the big Pan Am
When someone came
And put the lonely message in her hand.

It said, “From Billy,” at the bottom, “To Baby,” at the top
Western Union Wire — “Please help me” — stop.
Western Union Wire — “Don’t leave me.” — stop.

Headin’ high above Chicago
Just a-reachin’ for the skies
She found herself with teardrops in her eyes.
And a little boy beside her asked her,
“Mama, where is Pop ?”
And she just broke down a-cryin’
‘Cause she knew she couldn’t stop.

It said, “From Billy,” at the bottom, “To Baby,” at the top
Western Union Wire — “Don’t leave me.” — stop.
“Ah, you said you’d always love me — how could you ?” — stop,
“In pieces on the runway — I love you.” — stop.