(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
