The Signal Hill Shanty

In 1918 I accidentally lit the powder
Sparks from my pipe blew up Cabot Tower
I was preparing the cannon for the noon day shot
I said oh lord I made it too hot

I’m gonna climb my way up the hill
Fire the noon day cannon
I know the drill
I’m gonna climb my way up the hill
Fire the noon day cannon
On Signal Hill

Said fetch a doctor real quick
I’m Michael Cantwell and I’m covered in brick
There was a bang and a crack and hullabaloo
Many hands pulled me out of the stew

The doctor arrived, had a heck of a climb
He wouldn’t come up unless paid with a dime
I said doc can you help me, there’s work to be had
He said listen here son, you’re hurt real bad

The doc was serious, he knew time was short
He said go to George Street, have a last snort
I said no way, there’s chores to be done
There’s flags that need waving, I gotta fire that gun

Went to ladies lookout bleeding to die
I signalled the ships with tears in my eyes
My days were ending, gave it all I got
Had to get this tower fixed before I died on the spot

The tower was crumbling, too much damage done
Engineers and tradesman would see it redone
As my fate was certain, I had a favour to ask
Give me missus whatever I haves

I went to heaven, told the lord my fate
He knew me personally, met me at the gate
Said Newfoundlanders always get right in
The best thing about it, didn’t ask about sin