On The Banks Of The Old Pontchartrain

I traveled from Texas to low Louisian', Through valleys, o'er mountains and plain. Both footsore and weary, I rested a while On the banks of the Old Pontchar-train. The fairest young maiden that I ever saw Passed by as it started to rain. We both found a shelter beneath the same tree On the banks of the Old Pontchar-train. I ventured a smile, but she thought I was bold. I hastened to try and explain, But somehow I knew I would linger a while On the banks of the Old Pontchar-train. We hid from the shower an hour or so. She asked me how long I'd remain. I told her I'd spend the rest of my life On the banks of the Old Pontchar-train. As time drifted by, we fell deeper in love, A love that could just bring her pain. I knew that one day I would leave her alone On the banks of the Old Pontchar-train. I just couldn't tell her that I ran away From jail on an old Texas plain. I prayed in my heart I would never be found On the banks of the Old Pontchar-train. Then one day a man put his hand on my arm And said I must go west again. I left her alone without saying goodbye, On the banks of the Old Pontchartrain. Tonight as I sit here alone in my cell, I know that she's waiting in vain. I'm hoping and praying someday to return To the banks of the Old Pontchartrain.