On The Banks Of The Ponchertrain

I've traveled from Texas to old Louisiane

Through valleys, over mountains and plains

Both foot sore and weary, I rested awhile

On the banks of the old Ponchertrain



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 Ponchertrain



I ventured a smile but the thought I was home

I hastened to try and explain

But somehow I knew I would linger awhile

On the banks of the old Ponchertrain



We hid from the shower an hour or so

She asked me how long I'd remain

Well, I told her that I'd spend the rest of my days

On the banks of the old Ponchertrain



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 Ponchertrain



Tonight as I sit here alone in my cell

I know that she's waiting for me

I'm hoping and praying someday she'll return

To the banks of the old Ponchertrain

On the banks of the old Ponchertrain