Mabel You Have Been a Friend to Me

(Tom T. Hall)



I appreciate the coffee that you've made

I appreciate the shelter of your roof

I'll pay you back someday for all your kindness

And all the other liberties I took.



Although I cannot say that I have loved you

I won't forget how good it was to be

Among the people you call little darling

Mabel you have been a friend to me.



Mabel you have been a friend to me

And somewhere down the line I'll drink a toast

To the lady who encouraged me to try

And you took me in when I was down and broke.



I hope that life holds many thrills for you

And there are great big apples on your tree

I'm sorry that I could't give you more than thanks

Mabel you have been a friend to me.



--- Instrumental ---



If you hear that I'm somewhere and I'm doin' well

Don't you fail to stop and see me if you can

Oh you know that if you ever need a pal

I'll sure be there to lend you a helping hand.



If fortune treats me good and if I make it

I'll remember where I rest my wandering feet

That you made part of the bitter journey sweeter

Mabel you have been a friend to me.



Mabel you have been a friend to me...