The Carter Family
I Can’t Be Your Sweetheart
[Verse 1]
Last night I told my heart's love
All under the pale blue sky
Eagerly waiting an answer
I plainly could see in her eye
I love you, sweetheart, I love you
And ask you to be my bride
Her face turned pale and she trembled
And sadly to me replied

[Chorus]
I cannot be your sweetheart
I cannot stay by your side
There's one who's waiting off yonder
Who's claiming me his bride
My heart is almost broken
Your vows only add to my pain
I love you, sweetheart, I love you
Though we may never meet again

[Verse 2]
We said goodbye in the moonlight
My heart was turned to a stone
One peaceful hour I was made happy
But now I am sad and lone
Amidst my sorrows forever
Though she may go far away
Wherever she goes I'll love her
And still I can hear her say
[Chorus]