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
In no other's arms entwine
Down beside where the waters flow (where waters flow)
Down by the banks of the Ohio (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 wandered home 'tween 12 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
Down beside, where the waters flow (where waters flow)