(intro)

I used to be a rambler, I stayed around this town
I used to be a rambler, I stayed around in town
I courted Pretty Polly and the (guilt) has never been found

(break)

Oh where is Pretty Polly, oh yonder she stands
Oh where is Pretty Polly, oh yonder she stands
With rings on her fingers and lily-white hands

Pretty Polly, Pretty Polly come take a walk with me
Pretty Polly, Pretty Polly come take a walk with me
When we get married some pleasure to see

(break)

He led her over hills and valleys so deep
He led her over hills and valleys so deep
At last Pretty Polly, she began to weep

Oh Willie oh Willie I'm 'fraid of your way
Willie oh Willie I'm 'fraid of your way
All minding to ramble and lead me astray

(break)

Pretty Polly, Pretty Polly you guessin' about right
Pretty Polly, Pretty Polly you guessin' about right
I dug on your grave two-thirds of last night

They went on a piece farther and what did they spy?
Went on up (?) farther and what did they spy?
A new-dug grave and a spade lying by

(break)

She threw her arms around him and began for to weep
She threw her arms around him and began for to weep
At last Pretty Polly, she fell asleep

He threw the dirt over her, and turned away to go
Threw the dirt over her, and turned away to go
Down to the river where the deep water flow