[Verse 1]
When first unto this country a stranger I came
I courted a fair, young maiden, and Nancy was her name
I courted her for love, but love I couldn't obtain
Do you think I've any reason or right to complain?

[Verse 2]
I rode to see my Nancy, I rode both day and night
I courted dearest Nancy, my own heart's true delight
I rode to see my Nancy, I rode both day and night
'Til I spied a fine stallion, both plump lookin' and white

[Verse 3]
Sheriff's men, they'd followed and overtaken me
They took me away to the penitentiary
They took me to the jailhouse and thеn they shoved me in
Thеy shaved off my head and they cleared off my chin

[Verse 4]
They beat me and they banged me, they fed me on dry beans
'Til I wished to my own true heart I'd never been a thief
With hands in my pockets and the hat sit on so bold
And a robe of many colors, like Jacob's of old

[Outro]
When first unto this country, a stranger I came
I courted a fair, young maid, Nancy was her name