Law Is for Protection of the People

(Kris Kristofferson)



Billy Dalton staggered on the sidewalk

Someone said he stumbled and he fell

Six squad cars came screamin' to the rescue

Hauled old Billy Dalton off to jail.



'Cause the law is for protection of the people

Rules're rules and any fool can see

We don't need no tramps like Billy Dalton

Scaring decent folks like you and me, no siree.



Charlie Watson wandered like a stranger

Showin' he had no means of support

Policeman took a look at Charlie's pants cuffs

Hustled Charlie Watson off to court.



'Cause the law is for protection of the people

Rules're rules and any fool can see

We don't need no bums like Charlie Watson

Scaring decent folks like you and me, no siree.



Homer Lee was nothing but a hippie

Walking through this world without a care

Then one day six strapping brave policemen

Held down Homer Lee and cut his hair.



'Cause the law is for protection of the people

Rules're rules and any fool can see

We don't need no hairy headed hippie

Scaring decent folks like you and me, no siree.



So thank your lucky stars you've got protection

Walk the line and never mind the cost

And don't wonder who them lawmen were protecting

When they nailed the Saviour to the cross.



'Cause the law is for protection of the people

Rules're rules and any fool can see

We don't need no little sneaking prophets

Scaring decent folks like you and me, no siree...