I asked my love to take a walk just to walk just a little way
Down beside where the waters flow down by the banks of the Ohio
And 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

I held my knife against her breast as into my arms she pressed
She cried oh please don't murder me I'm not compared for eternity
And only say that you'll be mine
[ 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
And only say that you'll be mine