I traveled from Texas to Old louis-anne Through valleys, o'er mountains and plains Both footsore and weary I rested a-while On the banks of the Old Pontchartrain. 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 Pontchartrain. We hid from the shower an hour or so She asked me how long I'd remain I told her that I'd spend the rest of my days On the banks of the Old Pontchartrain. I just couldn't tell her that I ran away From jail on a west Texas plain I prayed in my heart I would never be found On the banks of the Old Pontchartrain. 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.