The Engineer's Dying Child Lyrics - Personal File - Johnny Cash

A little child on a sickbed lay, 

And death was very near. 

He was the pride and the only child of a railroad engineer. 

His duty had called him from those he loved, 

And seeing that hope was dim. 

While a tear he shed to his wife he said, "Just have two lanterns trimmed." 

(Chorus) 

Just hang a light when I pass tonight. 

Hang it where it can be seen. 

If the baby's dead then show the red. 

If he's better then show the green. 

Related 

Naughty & Nice Christmas Songs 

5 Totally Underrated Christmas Songs 

20 Classic Christmas Lyrics to Celebrate The Holiday Season 

In a little shack, 

By the railroad track, 

A mother with watchful eyes. 

Saw a gleam of hope in a tender smile, 

As the train went rushing by, 

Just one short look, 

Was his only chance? 

To see the light a gleam. 

In the midnight air their rose a prayer. 

Thank god the light was green. 

Photos 

(Chorus) 

Just hang a light when I pass tonight. 

Hang it where it can be seen. 

If the baby's dead then show the red. 

If he's better then show the green.