[Verse 1]
When first unto this country a stranger I came
And I courted a fair maid, and Nancy was her name

[Verse 2]
I courted her for love, and her love I didn't obtain
Do you think I've any reason or right to complain?

[Instrumental Break]

[Verse 3]
I rode to see my Nancy, I rode both night and day
'Til I noticed a stallion both white-lookin' and gray

[Verse 4]
The sheriff's men had followed, and they'd overtaken me
And they carted me away to the penitentiary

[Verse 5]
They opened up the door, and then they shoved me in
And they shaved off my head, and then they cleared off my chin

[Verse 6]
They beat me, and they banged me, and they fed me on dry beans
'Til I wished in my own heart I'd never been a thief
[Instrumental Break]

[Verse 7]
With my hands all in my pockets, my cap set on so bold
And my coat of all colors like Jacob's of old

[Verse 8]
When first unto this country a stranger I came
And I courted a fair maid, and Nancy was her name