the banks of Ohio Songtext / Lyric

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

[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.
[Chorus]

I held a knife against her breast
As into my arms she pressed,
She cried "Oh Willie, don't you murder me
I'm not prepared for eternity!"

[Chorus]

I started home 'tween twelve and one
I cried "My God! What have I done?
Kkilled the only woman I loved
Because she would not be my bride."