I asked my love to take a walk
To take a walk, just a little walk
Down beside where the waters flow
Down by the banks of the Ohio
And only say that you'll be mine
And in no other's arms entwined
Down beside where the waters flow
Down by the banks of the Ohio
I held a knife against his breast
As into my arms he pressed
He cried, "My love, don't you murder me
I'm not prepared for eternity"
I started home 'tween twelve and one
I cried, "My God, what have I done?
I've killed the only man I love
He would not take me for his bride"