Banks of the Ohio

1.
I asked my love to take a walk,
to take a walk, just a little walk,
down beside where the waters flow,
down by the banks of the Ohio.

Refrain:
And only say that you'll be mine
in no other's arms entwine,
down beside where the waters flow,
down by the banks of the Ohio.

2.
I held a knife against her breast
as into my arms she pressed,
she cried, "Oh, Willie, don't murder me,
I'm not prepared for eternity."

Refrain:

3.
Returning home 'tween twelve and one,
I cried, "My God! What have I done?
I'd killed the girl I loved, you see,
Because she would not marry me."

Refrain: