BANKS OF THE OHIO

I asked my love to take a walk, just to walk a little way
And as we walked so then we talked 'bout our golden wedding day.
   And only say that you'll be mine, and in our home we'll happy be!
   Down beside where the waters flow, down by the Banks of the Ohio.

I took her by the lily white hand, and led her to the river bank,
And there I pushed her in to drown, and watched her as she floated down.
   And only say (etc.)

I was comin' home 'twixt twelve and one, thinking on what I'd done,
I killed the only woman that I love, because she would not marry me.
   And only say (etc.)

The very next day 'bout half past four the Sheriff knocked at my door,
Sayin', Come, man, just come along down by the Banks of the Ohio.
   And only say (etc.)

(another version from Song Fest)

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

I asked your mother for you, she said you were too young,
Only say that you'll be mine, happiness in my home you'll find.

I held a knife against her breast, as into my arms she pressed.
She cried, Willie, don't murder me, I'm not prepared for eternity.

The very next day 'bout half past four the Sheriff knocked at my door,
Sayin', Come, man, just come along, down by the Banks of the Ohio.

(from miriam berg's folksong collection)