Fair Ellen

Deep down in yonder valley where the violets fade and bloom

There lies my own fair Ellen in a cold and solemn tomb

She died not brokenhearted, nor of disease she fell

Yet in one instant parted from the home she loved so well

One night as the moon shone brightly and the stars were shining too

Up to her darkened window her jealous lover drew

Fair Ellen lead us, wandered down in young meadows away

While wandering let us ponder and name our wedding day

So to the woods he lead her, his own true love so fair

Said she 'tis for you only that I am wandering here

The night is dark and dreary and I am afraid to stay

And I am growing weary, I would like to retrace my way

Retrace your way, no never, fair Ellen you must die

For in these woods I've loved you, and from you cannot fly

The birds sang in the morning, though lonesome was their song

And strangers found her body in a cold and lifeless form

Adieu my friends and parents, you'll never see me no more

Long long you'll wait my coming at our little cottage door

Come all ye fair young women who chance to look this way

Never put your trust in young men for they will lead you astray