Banks of the Ohio

(spoken)

I asked my love to take a walk

Just to walk just a little way

As we talked of our future wedding day

And when she said she could never be mine

(sung)

I placed a knife against her breast

As into my arms she pressed

She cried oh please don't murder me

I'm not prepared for eternity

(chorus)

Only say that you'll be mine

In no other arms entwined

Down beside where the waters flow

Down by the banks of the Ohio

[ mandolin - banjo ]

I started home tween twelve and one

I cried my God what have I done

I've killed the only one I loved

Because she would not be my bride

repeat chorus