Banks of the Ohio

I asked my love to go with me, to take a walk a little way

 

And as we walked and as we talked, about our golden wedding day

 

Chorus:

Then only say that you'll be mine

And in no other arms entwine.

Down beside, where the waters flow,

Down by the banks of the Ohio.

 

I asked your mother for you dear,

And she said you were too young,

Only say that you’ll be mine,

Happiness in my home, you’ll find (Chorus)

 

I held a knife against her breast

As gently in my arms she pressed,

Crying "Willie, Oh Willie! Don't murder me

For I'm unprepared for eternity!" (Chorus)

 

I took her by her lily-white hand

And led her down where the waters stand;

I picked her up and pitched her in

And watched her as she floated down. (Chorus)

 

I started home twixt twelve and one

Crying "My God! What have I done?

I've murdered the only woman I love

Because she would not be my bride. (Chorus)

 

The very next day at half past four

The sheriff walked right to my door

And he says "Young man, don't you try to run

You will pay for this crime you've done". (chorus)

*'Banks of the Ohio'" is a 19th century murder ballad, written by unknown authors – wikipedia.org