(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