Pioneer history of Ingham County, compiled and arranged by Mrs. Franc L. Adams, secretary of the Ingham County pioneer and historical society.

WHITE OAK TOWNSHIP AND ITS HISTORY

815

was found pasted in an old book his father had that was published
in 1848.
"DON'T GO WEST."
"Come, eastern friend, if you'll attend
Unto the counsel of a friend,
I think it would be your best plan
To stay away from Michigan.
"The sawmills they are dangerous things,
Are running fast and slabs they fling;
They kill you or cut off your hand
And leave you a beggar in Michigan.
"Each Saturday night you want your pay,
Expect your money right away,
But a written order is put in your hand,
That's the way you're paid in Michigan.
"The doctors they are young in skill;
They do no good, but put in their bill.
They tell you they do all they can,
And let you die in Michigan.
"The people they are getting sad
Because their money is all bad;
The banks all broke but two or three,
And they'll soon die with the 'cholerie.'
"The swamps they are all filled with brakes,
And are alive with rattlesnakes;
They lie and watch; do all they can
To bite the folks in Michigan.
"There are a few nice boys, 'tis true,
But, 0, alas, what can they do?
But if one wants a pretty wife
She can't be found to save his life.