press
fan mail
On the ranch where I grew up in Montana there is a sandstone marker planted in the prairie near the Two Medicine River. It is most likely from the late 1800's. A crude cross etched onto the surface belies the stone's purpose. I have always wondered who lies below it.

MARIE
Wylie Gustafson (Two Medicine Music, BMI)

I loved a girl, her name was Marie
But the hand of God took her from me
Down by the river in her favorite dress
Down by the river I laid her to rest

Marie , Marie the wind calls her name
What I wouldn't give to hold her again

In the little old shack that once was our home
In the little old shack where I wait alone
The days pass by so empty and slow
I try but I can't let her go

Down to the river with a rope in my hand
Down to the river where the cottonwood stands
Way up high I tie the knot to the bough
Dear God, my God, take me to her now